How to Make Warm Cinnamon Milk this Fall

When the air cools and you find yourself longing for something warm, comforting, and aromatic, cinnamon milk is like a hug-in-a-mug. Whether you enjoy it as a soothing after-dinner drink, a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a homemade coffee creamer, this cinnamon milk recipe offers nostalgic flavors and nourishing ingredients that provide valuable health benefits. Serve it with some pumpkin custard for optimum cozy vibes.

 

The Benefits of Cinnamon: Ceylon vs. Cassia

Cinnamon is a fragrant spice that comes from the bark of various cinnamon trees grown in various regions worldwide. While each boasts a warm, spicy aroma, not all cinnamon is created equal. The two most common types are Ceylon and Cassia. Each has distinct properties:

Ceylon Cinnamon

• Known as “true” cinnamon
• Slightly earthy, more delicate flavor
• Harder to find and more expensive (I get it from Savory Spice)
• Contains higher levels of antioxidants
• Contains lower levels of potentially harmful coumarin

 

Cassia Cinnamon (AKA Indonesian Cinnamon)

• Slightly spicier than Ceylon
• Readily available in every grocery store (labeled “cinnamon”)
• Less expensive
• Higher concentrations of coumarin, a plant compound which may be toxic to the liver in large amounts.

Regardless of which variety you choose, both yield a delicious and comforting cup of cinnamon milk that will support blood sugar regulation.

 

Ingredients

The list of ingredients is short, but mighty.

• Unsweetened non-dairy milk (I like concentrated almond milk)
• Pure vanilla extract
• Ceylon cinnamon
• Liquid stevia, Pure Liquid Monk Fruit Drops or raw honey
• Unflavored collagen peptides (optional)

See the recipe card below for measurements.

 

How to Make Cinnamon Milk

1. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the non-dairy milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and your chosen sweetener.
2. Whisk the mixture until it’s well-combined and warmed through, making sure it doesn’t boil—190ºF is the ideal temperature. You’ll know it’s ready when the milk starts to foam slightly.
3. If using collagen peptides, whisk them in at the end until fully dissolved.
4. Dust the top with more cinnamon before serving.

 

Flavor Variations

Cinnamon Cacao Milk

If you love Mexican chocolate cake, you’ll love the addition of cacao.

Simply add a heaping tablespoon (or two) of organic cacao powder to the recipe above. Whisk thoroughly to break up any clumps or blend it with a latte frother for a velvety finish.

Cinnamon cacao milk is rich, warming, and satisfies chocolate cravings without sugar, dairy or additives. Thrive Market has a high-quality cacao powder for a great price [enjoy 40% off your first box].

Remember cacao does contain caffeine, so avoid sipping this variation before bed.

 

Cinnamon Latte

For those looking to avoid store-bought creamers loaded with artificial ingredients and added sugar, this recipe easily doubles as homemade cinnamon coffee creamer. Pour it over your favorite coffee for a healthy (and inexpensive) cinnamon latte.

If herbal tea is more your style, the subtle notes of vanilla and cinnamon perfectly compliment rooibos tea. Rooibos cinnamon lattes are wonderful in the fall and winter to boost the immune system.

 

Tips for the Best Foam

• For a creamy, café-quality beverage with extra foam, using a latte frother makes all the difference. It instantly adds more air than a whisk, creating puffy clouds of foam.
• The higher the fat content of your milk, the better it will foam.
• Collagen peptides also produce more foam. Plus, they help suspend the blended cinnamon in the milk–especially if used with a latte frother–resulting in a smoother drink. Keep in mind, though, you’ll still need to stir occasionally, as the cinnamon will slowly sink to the bottom.

Almond Milk Vs. Oat Milk

Choosing the right non-dairy milk is essential. Both almond and oat milk are popular non-dairy options. Here are my thoughts about each.

Almond Milk

• Concentrated, unsweetened almond milk works the best. Elmhurst and Three Trees are good brands.
• High fat content creates a rich beverage that foams well with a latte frother.
• Can be diluted by 50% to make the carton last longer.
• Lower in carbohydrates than many other plant-based milks, making it a good option for those looking to keep blood sugar levels and inflammation in check.

 

Oat Milk

• Even unsweetened varieties are naturally sweet and creamy.
• High in starchy carbohydrates, which can cause a spike in glucose levels and increase inflammation.
• Unless certified organic and gluten-free, oat milk may be contaminated with glyphosate and gluten, which harm the gut lining.

 

A Healthy, Soothing Beverage for All Occasions

Cinnamon milk is a versatile, nourishing, and easy-to-make drink that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you choose to drink it on its own, add cacao for an indulgent treat, or use it to craft a cinnamon latte, it’s sure to leave you feeling like you just received a warm hug.

Not only does it taste creamy and delicious, but it also offers the added benefit of stabilizing blood sugar, promoting gut health, and providing antioxidants–especially if you opt for Ceylon cinnamon.

So next time you’re in need of a comforting, nutritious dessert beverage that won’t make you feel awful an hour later, warm a cup of cinnamon milk and savor every sip.

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Healthy Hot Chocolate with Ginger and Collagen

Energizing Coconut Milk Matcha Latte (3 Ways)

The Most Mouthwatering Tiramisu Latte