12.21.2017
Saigon/Cassia Cinnamon vs. Ceylon Cinnamon Comparison
Compare Saigon (Cassia) and Ceylon cinnamon: flavor, best uses, substitutions, health notes, storage, and where to buy.
- Saigon (Vietnam/Cassia) is bold, sweet-spicy and high in essential oils; great where cinnamon is the star flavor.
- Ceylon (true cinnamon) is milder, with floral and citrus notes; ideal for tea, coffee, jams, and delicate dishes.
- Substitute carefully: Saigon is stronger so use less; watch cassia intake because it has higher coumarin than Ceylon.
What is the difference between Saigon Cinnamon and Ceylon Cinnamon?
The main difference between saigon cinnamon and ceylon cinnamon comes from where they are grown giving each variety distinct qualities and benefits. Both cinnamon types are known for their strong aroma and flavor profiles.
Saigon cinnamon is spicy and sweet and has high oil content, making the spice very potent. It grows best in the central mountain forests of Vietnam. Saigon is great to use in sweet baking recipes where cinnamon is the star flavor, especially French toast, cinnamon rolls, and apple pie.
Ceylon cinnamon has a delicately floral and citrusy aroma. It is grown primarily on the island of Sri Lanka. Ceylon’s flavor pairs well with homemade jams, poached fruits, teas, and coffee. In fact, it is commonly used for making tea on its own. Ceylon is also popular in Mexican cuisine.
Saigon Cinnamon vs. Canela Molida
Canela molida simply translates from Spanish to “ground cinnamon” in English. Canela molida generally refers to Ceylon cinnamon. Canela molida holds similar warm cinnamon flavors as Saigon cinnamon, but with a softer flavor, that is typically found in Mexican dishes.
What are good recipes for Saigon Cinnamon?
We have fantastic recipes featuring Saigon cinnamon, including: snickerdoodles, cinnamon rolls, and apple pie.
What are good recipes for Ceylon Cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon is a popular choice for Mexican dishes, including Mexican hot chocolate.
Where can I learn more about cinnamon?
We have a blog post where we outline the different types of cinnamon or you can read this Bon Appetit article: “did you know that there are different types of cinnamon?”
Where to buy Saigon cinnamon
We carry Saigon Cinnamon on our website. Year after year, this is one of The Spice House’s most popular spices.
Where to buy Ceylon cinnamon
Ceylon is one of the more common cinnamon types so you may be able to find this variety at your local grocery store. We also offer Ground Ceylon Cinnamon on our website as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Saigon and Ceylon cinnamon?
Saigon, a Cassia variety from Vietnam, is bold, sweet and spicy with high oil content. Ceylon, from Sri Lanka, is milder with floral and citrus notes. Their origins shape aroma, strength, and common uses.
Which cinnamon is best for baking and which for drinks?
Use Saigon when cinnamon should dominate, as in cinnamon rolls, snickerdoodles, and apple pie. Use Ceylon for teas, coffee, poached fruits, jams, and recipes that need a lighter, more delicate cinnamon note.
Can I substitute one for the other in a recipe and what ratio should I use?
Yes. Because Saigon is stronger, start with about 1/2 to 3/4 the amount called for if substituting Saigon for Ceylon and adjust to taste. If replacing Saigon with Ceylon, increase the Ceylon amount by about 25 to 50 percent.
What does canela molida mean and which cinnamon is it?
Canela molida simply means ground cinnamon in Spanish. In many Mexican contexts it refers to the milder, Ceylon-style cinnamon used in drinks and dishes, rather than the stronger Cassia varieties.
Are there health differences between Saigon and Ceylon cinnamon?
Yes. Cassia types like Saigon contain more coumarin, a compound that can affect the liver in large amounts. Ceylon has much lower coumarin. Limit long-term high intake of Cassia and talk with a doctor if you have health concerns.
How can I tell real Ceylon cinnamon from Cassia by looking?
Ceylon sticks are thin, soft and made of many paper-thin layers. Cassia sticks, including Saigon, are thicker, harder and often form a single hollow tube. The aroma also helps: Cassia smells stronger and sweeter, Ceylon more delicate.
Where can I buy Saigon and Ceylon cinnamon?
Saigon cinnamon is sold by specialty spice suppliers and online. Ceylon is widely available in grocery stores and online. Check labels: look for terms like Vietnamese or Cassia for Saigon and Sri Lanka or Ceylon for true cinnamon.
What is the best way to store cinnamon for maximum flavor?
Store ground or whole cinnamon in an airtight container away from heat and light. Whole sticks keep their flavor longest. Ground cinnamon loses aroma faster, so use within 6 to 12 months for best flavor.
What is the main difference between Saigon and Ceylon cinnamon?
Saigon, a Cassia variety from Vietnam, is bold, sweet and spicy with high oil content. Ceylon, from Sri Lanka, is milder with floral and citrus notes. Their origins shape aroma, strength, and common uses.
Which cinnamon is best for baking and which for drinks?
Use Saigon when cinnamon should dominate, as in cinnamon rolls, snickerdoodles, and apple pie. Use Ceylon for teas, coffee, poached fruits, jams, and recipes that need a lighter, more delicate cinnamon note.
Can I substitute one for the other in a recipe and what ratio should I use?
Yes. Because Saigon is stronger, start with about 1/2 to 3/4 the amount called for if substituting Saigon for Ceylon and adjust to taste. If replacing Saigon with Ceylon, increase the Ceylon amount by about 25 to 50 percent.
What does canela molida mean and which cinnamon is it?
Canela molida simply means ground cinnamon in Spanish. In many Mexican contexts it refers to the milder, Ceylon-style cinnamon used in drinks and dishes, rather than the stronger Cassia varieties.
Are there health differences between Saigon and Ceylon cinnamon?
Yes. Cassia types like Saigon contain more coumarin, a compound that can affect the liver in large amounts. Ceylon has much lower coumarin. Limit long-term high intake of Cassia and talk with a doctor if you have health concerns.
How can I tell real Ceylon cinnamon from Cassia by looking?
Ceylon sticks are thin, soft and made of many paper-thin layers. Cassia sticks, including Saigon, are thicker, harder and often form a single hollow tube. The aroma also helps: Cassia smells stronger and sweeter, Ceylon more delicate.
Where can I buy Saigon and Ceylon cinnamon?
Saigon cinnamon is sold by specialty spice suppliers and online. Ceylon is widely available in grocery stores and online. Check labels: look for terms like Vietnamese or Cassia for Saigon and Sri Lanka or Ceylon for true cinnamon.
What is the best way to store cinnamon for maximum flavor?
Store ground or whole cinnamon in an airtight container away from heat and light. Whole sticks keep their flavor longest. Ground cinnamon loses aroma faster, so use within 6 to 12 months for best flavor.
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