Homemade Cinnamon Sugar (Copycat Cinnadust Seasoning)
If you love that cozy, cinnamon-sweet flavor found in snickerdoodles, churros, or cinnamon rolls, this cinnamon sugar recipe is your new go-to. It's inspired by the popular Cinnadust seasoning you find in stores, but made at home with just three ingredients and no additives.
It's super simple that you can whip it up in under five minutes and use it anywhere you'd normally sprinkle cinnamon sugar: over toast, dusted on baked goods, or even rolled into cookies.
Why I Love This
- Simple and fast - three pantry ingredients, ready in minutes.
- Better than store-bought - pure, natural, and no artificial flavorings.
- Incredibly versatile - use this cinnamon sugar blend in countless desserts and breakfasts.
Ingredient Overview
- Granulated sugar - Creates the sweet base and the classic crunchy texture.
- Ground cinnamon - Use a good quality cinnamon!
- Salt - A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavor.
This homemade version is essentially a cleaner, more flavorful version of the store-bought Cinnadust and you get to control the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy by adjusting the ratios to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until fully blended and the mixture looks evenly colored.
Step 2: Store Properly
Transfer your mixture to an airtight jar or spice container. Keep it in a cool, dry place for up to three months or longer if you live in a dry climate.
Pro Tips / Expert Advice
💡 Baker's Tips
- Adjust the cinnamon to taste! Add more for a stronger, spicier flavor or less for a lighter blend.
- A fine sea salt gives a more even flavor distribution than coarse salt. Don't use coarse or kosher salt.
- For a gourmet twist, mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't use powdered sugar; it clumps and doesn't caramelize well during baking.
- Avoid overly humid environments, it can cause your sugar to harden or clump over time.
How to Make It Extra Gourmet
Try using vanilla sugar instead of plain granulated sugar or add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal variation.
Storage & Freezing Info
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months. If you live in a humid area, add a food-safe silica packet to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
Use this recipe anywhere you'd use the store-bought Cinnadust:
- Sprinkle on buttered toast for the ultimate nostalgic breakfast.
- Roll cookie dough or churros in it before baking or frying.
- Dust over cinnamon rolls or coffee cakes for an extra-sweet topping.
- Stir into coffee, tea, or oatmeal for a cozy morning flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon fine salt not Kosher
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Keep in an airtight container for up to three months, or longer if you live in a dry area.
- Use it in cinnamon rolls, on top of sweet breads or loaves, rolled into cookies or anywhere you would normally use cinnamon sugar.
FAQ Section
What is the ratio for cinnamon sugar?
This recipe uses 1 cup sugar to ¼ cup cinnamon for a strong, flavorful mix which is perfect for baking or sprinkling.
How long does homemade cinnamon sugar last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 months at room temperature.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, but not always! Brown sugar gives it a caramel-like note, but it's best used for toppings or cinnamon roll fillings since it's stickier due to the molasses in the brown sugar.
Is this cinnamon sugar the same as Cinnadust?
It's a homemade copycat version with real cinnamon and no artificial flavors-tastes even better!
