Korean Cinnamon

Korean Cinnamon: The Bold Spice Behind Korea’s Most Beloved Comfort Foods

Cinnamon (Wikipedia)

Cinnamomum cassia (Wikipedia)

Discover Korean cinnamon (gyepi), a bold aromatic spice essential in traditional teas, desserts, and medicine. Learn how to use, store, and cook with this warming ingredient.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Korean Cinnamon?
2. Korean Cinnamon vs. Ceylon Cinnamon: What’s the Difference?
3. Traditional Uses in Korean Cuisine
4. Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
5. How to Use Korean Cinnamon in Cooking
6. Storage Tips and Shelf Life
7. Where to Buy Korean Cinnamon
8. FAQs About Korean Cinnamon

What Is Korean Cinnamon?

Korean cinnamon, or gyepi (계피), comes from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree and stands out for its intense, warming flavor that’s bolder than the milder Ceylon variety common in Western kitchens. This aromatic spice has been a cornerstone of Korean cooking and traditional medicine for centuries, valued not just for its taste but for its therapeutic properties.

Unlike the delicate sweetness of Ceylon cinnamon, Korean cinnamon delivers a robust, slightly spicy punch with earthy undertones. This makes it perfect for Korean comfort foods and beverages that require a pronounced cinnamon presence. According to the Korean Food Promotion Institute, gyepi is classified as both a culinary ingredient and a medicinal herb, reflecting its dual role in Korean culture.

The spice appears in two main forms: whole bark sticks (typically thicker and darker than Ceylon cinnamon) and ground powder. Whole sticks are preferred for steeping in teas and broths, while the powder works well in baked goods and desserts.

Korean Cinnamon vs. Ceylon Cinnamon: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the distinction between Korean cinnamon (cassia) and Ceylon cinnamon helps explain why they’re used differently in cooking. Korean cinnamon contains higher levels of cinnamaldehyde, the compound responsible for its bold flavor and aroma. This makes it ideal for applications where cinnamon should be a dominant note rather than a subtle background flavor.

Flavor Profile Comparison:

1. Korean Cinnamon (Cassia): Bold, spicy, slightly bitter, warming
2. Ceylon Cinnamon: Mild, sweet, delicate, citrusy notes

Physical Differences:

1. Korean Cinnamon: Thicker bark, darker reddish-brown color, single rolled layer
2. Ceylon Cinnamon: Thin, papery bark, lighter tan color, multiple rolled layers

Best Uses:

1. Korean Cinnamon: Traditional Korean teas, hearty broths, fermented drinks, savory-sweet dishes
2. Ceylon Cinnamon: Western pastries, light desserts, milk-based drinks, delicate baking

Many home cooks find Korean cinnamon essential for authentic Korean recipes because its stronger flavor profile holds up well during long cooking times and pairs beautifully with ginger, jujubes, and Korean pears—classic flavor combinations in traditional Korean beverages.

Traditional Uses in Korean Cuisine

Korean cinnamon appears throughout Korean culinary traditions, from celebratory drinks to everyday comfort foods. Its warming properties make it particularly popular during colder months, though it’s enjoyed year-round in various forms.

Sujeonggwa (수정과) – Cinnamon Punch

Perhaps the most iconic use of Korean cinnamon is in sujeonggwa, a chilled cinnamon-ginger punch traditionally served after meals or during special occasions. The beverage features a deep amber color and sweet-spicy flavor that cleanses the palate. Whole cinnamon sticks are simmered with fresh ginger and sugar, then chilled and garnished with pine nuts and dried persimmons.

Yakgwa (약과) – Honey Cookies

These traditional Korean cookies combine wheat flour, sesame oil, and honey with ground Korean cinnamon for warmth and depth. The dough is deep-fried and soaked in honey syrup infused with cinnamon, creating layers of flavor that showcase the spice’s versatility in Korean desserts.

Korean Teas and Medicinal Drinks

Korean traditional medicine has long valued cinnamon for its warming and circulation-supporting properties. Gyepi-cha (cinnamon tea) is prepared by steeping bark sticks in hot water, often combined with honey and jujubes. During winter, many Korean households prepare warming broths using cinnamon to combat cold symptoms.

Sweet Pancakes and Rice Cakes

Hotteok (호떡), the beloved Korean street food, features a cinnamon-sugar filling that melts into the dough when cooked on a hot griddle. Korean rice cakes (tteok) also frequently incorporate cinnamon powder for added aroma and traditional flavor.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

Korean cinnamon has been used in traditional Korean medicine for centuries, and modern research continues to explore its potential health benefits. The spice contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may support overall wellness.

Key Health Benefits:

Circulation Support: Traditional Korean medicine practitioners recommend gyepi for promoting healthy blood circulation and warming the body. The cassia variety contains compounds that may help maintain cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Digestive Aid: Many Korean households steep cinnamon tea after heavy meals to support digestion. The aromatic compounds in Korean cinnamon may help reduce bloating and discomfort.

Blood Sugar Management: Research suggests that cassia cinnamon may help support healthy blood sugar levels, though individuals should consult healthcare providers before using it for therapeutic purposes.

Immune System Support: The antimicrobial properties found in Korean cinnamon have made it a traditional remedy during cold and flu season. Korean ginger-cinnamon tea remains a popular home remedy for supporting immune health.

Important Considerations: Korean cinnamon (cassia) contains coumarin, a naturally occurring compound that should be consumed in moderate amounts. While culinary use is generally safe, those taking blood-thinning medications or with liver concerns should consult healthcare professionals. Ceylon cinnamon contains negligible coumarin for those who need to monitor intake closely.

How to Use Korean Cinnamon in Cooking

What Makes Korean Cinnamon Different to Cook With?

The bold intensity of Korean cinnamon means it works best in applications where its strong flavor can shine. Unlike delicate Ceylon cinnamon that might get lost in complex dishes, cassia cinnamon holds its own against robust flavors like ginger, garlic, and fermented ingredients common in Korean cooking.

Preparation Methods:

For Whole Sticks:

1. Break or cut sticks into 2-3 inch pieces for easier handling
2. Toast lightly in a dry pan before use to enhance aroma
3. Steep in hot liquids for 20-30 minutes to extract maximum flavor
4. Remove sticks before serving (they’re not meant to be eaten)

For Ground Cinnamon:

1. Use sparingly—start with half the amount you’d use for Ceylon cinnamon
2. Mix with other spices (ginger, black pepper) for complex warmth
3. Add toward the end of cooking for baked goods to preserve volatile oils
4. Store in airtight containers away from heat and light

Popular Korean Recipes Using Gyepi

Homemade Sujeonggwa: Simmer 4-5 cinnamon sticks with sliced ginger, sugar, and water for 40 minutes. Strain, chill, and serve with floating dried persimmons and pine nuts.

Cinnamon Rice Porridge (Gyepi-juk): Cook short-grain rice with water until very soft, then add ground cinnamon, honey, and a pinch of salt for a warming breakfast.

Hotteok Filling: Combine equal parts brown sugar and chopped nuts with generous ground cinnamon for the classic sweet pancake filling.

Korean Cinnamon Tea: Steep 2 cinnamon sticks with 3-4 jujubes in boiling water for 15 minutes. Sweeten with honey to taste.

Substitution Tip: When a recipe calls for Ceylon cinnamon, use about half to two-thirds the amount if substituting with Korean cinnamon due to its stronger flavor.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

How Long Does Korean Cinnamon Last?

Proper storage significantly affects Korean cinnamon’s potency and flavor retention. Whole cinnamon sticks maintain their quality much longer than ground powder due to less surface area exposure to air and moisture.

Whole Cinnamon Sticks:

1. Shelf life: 3-4 years when stored properly
2. Store in airtight glass jars or sealed plastic containers
3. Keep in a cool, dark cabinet away from heat sources
4. Avoid storing near the stove or in sunny locations
5. Test quality by breaking a small piece—it should snap cleanly and release strong aroma

Ground Korean Cinnamon:

1. Shelf life: 6-12 months for optimal flavor
2. Transfer from original packaging to airtight containers
3. Label with purchase date to track freshness
4. Consider buying smaller quantities more frequently
5. Loses potency faster than whole sticks but remains safe to use

Signs of Degraded Quality:

1. Weak or musty aroma when opened
2. Faded color (should be reddish-brown)
3. Clumping in ground cinnamon (indicates moisture exposure)
4. Lack of flavor when used in cooking

Freezing Tip: While not necessary, ground cinnamon can be frozen in airtight containers to extend shelf life beyond one year. Bring to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation.

Where to Buy Korean Cinnamon

Can You Find Korean Cinnamon in Regular Grocery Stores?

Korean cinnamon has become increasingly available as interest in Korean cuisine grows globally. However, knowing where to look and what to look for ensures you get authentic cassia cinnamon rather than Ceylon varieties.

Physical Retail Options:

Korean Grocery Stores: H Mart, 99 Ranch Market, and local Korean markets typically stock authentic gyepi in both whole stick and ground forms. Look for packages labeled "계피" or "Cassia Cinnamon" in the spice or tea sections.

Asian Supermarkets: Many pan-Asian grocery stores carry cassia cinnamon, which is also used in Chinese cooking. Check the spice aisle for whole sticks or bags labeled as Chinese cinnamon or cassia.

Health Food Stores: Some natural food retailers stock bulk cassia cinnamon sticks, though they may be more expensive than Asian grocery options.

Online Sources:

Reputable Korean ingredient websites and general e-commerce platforms offer Korean cinnamon with convenient home delivery. When purchasing online, verify the product is specifically Cinnamomum cassia rather than Ceylon cinnamon to ensure you’re getting the authentic Korean variety with its characteristic bold flavor.

What to Look For:

1. Whole sticks: Thicker, darker bark with a single curl
2. Color: Deep reddish-brown (not light tan)
3. Aroma: Strong, spicy-sweet smell even through packaging
4. Origin: Product of Korea, China, or Vietnam (major cassia producers)
5. Labeling: "Cassia cinnamon" or Korean labeling with 계피

Price Guide: Korean cinnamon generally costs less than premium Ceylon cinnamon. Expect to pay approximately $8-15 per pound for whole sticks, with ground powder slightly higher per weight. Buying in bulk from Korean grocers often offers the best value.

FAQs About Korean Cinnamon

What Can I Substitute for Korean Cinnamon?

If Korean cinnamon is unavailable, Chinese cassia cinnamon is the closest substitute since they’re often from the same species. Use a 1:1 ratio replacement. Ceylon cinnamon can work in a pinch, but you’ll need to increase the quantity by about 50% and may need to boost it with a pinch of allspice or clove to approximate the bolder flavor profile. Vietnamese cinnamon (also cassia) provides even more intensity and can substitute directly, though it’s slightly sweeter.

Is Korean Cinnamon Always Spicy?

Korean cinnamon delivers warmth and intensity rather than "spicy" heat like chili peppers. Its flavor profile includes natural sweetness combined with a slightly peppery, astringent edge that creates a warming sensation. The perceived spiciness comes from cinnamaldehyde, the compound responsible for cinnamon’s characteristic taste. When used appropriately in Korean recipes, this boldness complements rather than overwhelms other ingredients.

Can Korean Cinnamon Be Used in Western Baking?

Yes, but with adjustments. Korean cinnamon’s robust flavor works wonderfully in hearty baked goods like spice cakes, gingerbread, and apple pies where a pronounced cinnamon taste is desired. For delicate pastries or recipes requiring subtle cinnamon notes, reduce the amount by about half compared to Ceylon cinnamon, or consider using a Ceylon-cassia blend. Many experienced bakers appreciate cassia’s boldness in cinnamon rolls and coffee cakes.

Does Korean Cinnamon Have More Coumarin Than Ceylon?

Yes, cassia varieties including Korean cinnamon contain higher levels of coumarin compared to Ceylon cinnamon. Coumarin is a naturally occurring compound that can affect liver health in very high doses over prolonged periods. For typical culinary use—adding cinnamon to beverages, desserts, and dishes—this isn’t a concern for most people. Those who consume large daily amounts (multiple teaspoons) or have liver conditions should consult healthcare providers and may prefer Ceylon cinnamon for regular supplementation.

How Do You Make Traditional Korean Cinnamon Tea?

The simplest preparation involves steeping 2-3 whole cinnamon sticks in 4 cups of boiling water for 15-20 minutes. For enhanced flavor, add sliced fresh ginger (about 1 inch) and 4-5 dried jujubes at the beginning. Strain and sweeten with honey to taste. Many Korean households prepare large batches and store them in the refrigerator, serving the tea either hot or cold. For a richer version, simmer the ingredients gently for 30-40 minutes instead of just steeping.

Experience the Warmth of Korean Cinnamon

Korean cinnamon brings centuries of culinary tradition and warming comfort to modern kitchens. Whether you’re preparing traditional sujeonggwa for a special gathering, experimenting with hotteok at home, or simply enjoying a soothing cup of cinnamon tea, this bold spice connects you to Korea’s rich food culture.

The distinctive intensity of gyepi transforms everyday dishes into memorable experiences, offering both robust flavor and potential wellness benefits that have made it treasured in Korean households for generations. From its role in celebratory foods to its presence in everyday comfort drinks, Korean cinnamon symbolizes warmth, health, and hospitality.

Ready to explore authentic Korean flavors? Add Korean cinnamon to your pantry and discover how this aromatic spice elevates everything from traditional recipes to creative fusion dishes. For those seeking premium quality gyepi and other authentic Korean ingredients, explore our curated selection of traditional Korean pantry staples.

Have you cooked with Korean cinnamon before? Share your favorite ways to use this warming spice in the comments below, or let us know what Korean ingredient you’d like to learn about next.