Cinnamon sugar substitutes
Cinnamon sugar substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cinnamon + sugar
Same amount as the cinnamon sugar
Plus 1 tsp sugar per tbsp
Similar combination with different preparation.
The best substitutes for cinnamon sugar are cinnamon with sugar, pumpkin pie spice, or apple pie spice, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of cinnamon sugar | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cinnamon + sugarbaking | Same amountPlus 1 tsp sugar per tbspWorks | Works |
| 2 | Pumpkin pie spicebaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Apple pie spicebaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Cinnamon + brown sugarbaking | Same amountPlus 1 tsp brown sugar per tbspTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Cinnamon + honeybaking | Same amountPlus 1 tsp honey per tbspYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Cinnamon + maple syrupbaking | Same amountPlus 1 tsp maple syrup per tbspYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Cinnamon + sugar
similar taste and texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, toppings, seasoning
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Pumpkin pie spice
different taste, similar texture
Similar spice blend with different composition.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, toppings, seasoning
Different composition, similar flavor.
Apple pie spice
different taste, similar texture
Similar spice blend with different composition.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, toppings, seasoning
Different composition, similar flavor.
Cinnamon + brown sugar
different taste, similar texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, toppings, seasoning
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Cinnamon + honey
different taste and texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, toppings, seasoning
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Cinnamon + maple syrup
different taste and texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, toppings, seasoning
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use cinnamon with sugar instead of cinnamon sugar?
Yes, cinnamon with sugar is a good substitute for cinnamon sugar. It provides similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between cinnamon sugar and cinnamon with sugar?
Cinnamon sugar is a pre-mixed blend, while cinnamon with sugar is mixed separately. Both have cinnamon and sugar but different preparations.
Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon sugar?
Yes, pumpkin pie spice can work as a substitute, though it has a different composition. It provides similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is cinnamon sugar so popular in baking?
Cinnamon sugar is popular because it adds sweet, spicy flavor and is good for making cinnamon rolls and other baked goods.
Tips for substituting cinnamon sugar
6 tips- Cinnamon sugar adds sweet, spicy flavor to dishes
- Cinnamon sugar can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Cinnamon sugar pairs well with apples, pears, and nuts
- Cinnamon sugar works well in baking and desserts
- Cinnamon sugar can be used to make cinnamon rolls and donuts
- Store cinnamon sugar in a cool, dry place