Herb / Spice

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a warm, aromatic spice that can add delightful flavor to your baby's meals. While not a significant source of vitamins or minerals, it contains manganese, which supports bone development and metabolism.¹ Its sweet, comforting taste can help babies enjoy new foods, especially when paired with fruits or grains.

PPippin Feeding TeamReviewed by feeding specialists · Updated March 2026

First age6m+

CategoryHerb / Spice

Common allergenNo

Choking riskLow

When can babies eat Cinnamon?

Cinnamon can be introduced around 6 months when starting solids, but always use it in very small amounts as a flavor enhancer rather than a main ingredient.

Storage tip

Store cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Ground cinnamon lasts about 6 months, while sticks can stay fresh for up to a year.

How to serve Cinnamon by age

6 to 9 months

Mix a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon into smooth purees like apple, pear, or sweet potato. Ensure it's fully blended to avoid any clumps that might surprise your baby.

Start with less than 1/8 teaspoon per serving
Combine with single-ingredient purees first
Watch for any signs of irritation or dislike
Use it to enhance the natural sweetness of fruits
Avoid adding sugar or honey alongside cinnamon

9 to 12 months

Sprinkle a small amount of cinnamon onto soft, mashed foods like oatmeal, yogurt, or mashed bananas. You can also mix it into pancake or muffin batters for finger foods.

Increase to about 1/4 teaspoon per serving if tolerated
Try it in baked goods like soft teething biscuits
Mix with Greek yogurt for a creamy snack
Pair with applesauce for a quick side dish
Avoid cinnamon-sugar blends

12 months +

Use cinnamon more liberally in family meals like oatmeal, smoothies, or roasted vegetables. You can also introduce cinnamon sticks for sensory play (under supervision) but not for eating.

Experiment with cinnamon in savory dishes like squash soup
Make cinnamon toast with whole-grain bread
Add to homemade applesauce or fruit compotes
Use in moderation to avoid overpowering flavors
Store safely out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion

Safety & allergens

Choking risk: Low

Cinnamon itself is not a choking hazard when used as a powder or in tiny amounts. However, avoid giving whole cinnamon sticks to babies, as they could pose a risk. Always mix cinnamon thoroughly into foods like oatmeal or applesauce.

Not a common allergen

Cinnamon is not a top allergen. As with any new food, offer it on its own and watch for any reaction.

Vitamins & minerals

Cinnamon is not a major source of nutrients but contains manganese, which helps with bone health and enzyme function in the body.¹ It's primarily used for its flavor, which can make nutritious foods more appealing to babies without adding sugar.

Minerals

Manganese

Nutritional synergy

Pair cinnamon with iron-rich foods like oatmeal or lentils; while not directly enhancing absorption, its flavor can encourage babies to eat these nutrient-dense options.²

Pairs well with

Age varies

Apple

Fruit

Age varies

Banana

Fruit

Common questions

How much cinnamon is safe for my baby?

Start with a tiny pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon or less) mixed into a larger serving of food. Too much can be irritating, so use it sparingly as a flavor boost rather than a main ingredient.

Can I use cinnamon to help my baby eat more foods?

Yes! Cinnamon's sweet, warm taste can make plain foods like yogurt, applesauce, or oatmeal more appealing. It's a great way to introduce variety without added sugars.

What type of cinnamon is best for babies?

Both Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon are safe in small amounts. Cassia is more common and has a stronger flavor, but if you're concerned about coumarin content (which can be high in Cassia), opt for Ceylon or use very minimal amounts.