Cinnamon Sugar Seasoning

Cinnamon sugar seasoning is a common blend of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar. Cinnamon is a spice made from the dried inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum, while sugar is typically sucrose, extracted and refined from sugar cane or sugar beets. These two ingredients are combined to create a sweet and aromatic blend.

Manufacturers add cinnamon sugar seasoning primarily for its sweet flavor and aroma. It functions as both a flavoring agent and a sweetener, enhancing the taste of various foods. It is commonly used in snacks like popcorn, nuts, and pretzels, as well as in baked goods, breakfast cereals, and desserts.

Both cinnamon and sugar are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for their intended uses. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal, due to concerns about excessive intake being linked to various health issues. JECFA has evaluated both cinnamon and various forms of sugar, and for cinnamon, typical food consumption is generally considered safe. While some types of cinnamon (cassia) contain coumarin, which can be a concern in very high doses, this is not typically an issue at levels found in cinnamon sugar seasoning.