Deutsch: Zimtzucker / Español: Azúcar con canela / Português: Açúcar com canela / Français: Sucre à la cannelle / Italiano: Zucchero alla cannella

Zimtzucker is a simple yet flavourful blend of ground cinnamon and sugar, commonly used as a sweet topping or seasoning in baking and desserts. It is a staple in German cuisine, often sprinkled on pancakes, waffles, or toast, and is also used to enhance the flavour of baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries.

Description

Zimtzucker combines the warm, aromatic spice of cinnamon with the sweetness of sugar, creating a versatile mixture that enhances the taste of various dishes. It is easy to prepare at home and can be adjusted to personal taste by altering the ratio of cinnamon to sugar. The typical mixture is about 1 part cinnamon to 4 parts sugar, but this can vary.

The blend is particularly popular in Germany during the colder months, when its comforting aroma and flavour evoke a sense of warmth and festivity. Zimtzucker is also a key ingredient in traditional holiday treats like Zimtsterne (cinnamon star cookies) and is often used to dust desserts like apple strudel or rice pudding.

Commercially, pre-mixed Zimtzucker is widely available in stores, but many people prefer to make it fresh at home, ensuring optimal flavour and customisation.

Special Applications

• Baking: Used as a topping or filling for pastries, rolls, and cookies.
• Breakfast: Sprinkled over buttered toast, oatmeal, or pancakes.
• Desserts: Enhances fruit-based desserts like baked apples or fruit compotes.
• Beverages: A popular addition to coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced tea.

Application Areas

• German and European Cuisine: Featured in traditional recipes and holiday baking.
• DIY Baking Mixes: Often included in homemade spice blends for cakes and cookies.
• Quick Snacks: Mixed with butter or cream cheese for spreading on bread or crackers.

Well-Known Examples

• Zimtsterne: Traditional German cinnamon cookies dusted with Zimtzucker.
• Apfelstrudel: Austrian apple strudel often topped with a sprinkle of Zimtzucker.
• Grießbrei mit Zimtzucker: Semolina pudding served with a generous dusting of Zimtzucker.
• Churros: While not German, these are often coated in a Zimtzucker-like mixture in Spanish cuisine.

Risks and Challenges

• Cinnamon Sensitivity: Excessive consumption can cause mild irritation for some individuals sensitive to cinnamon.
• Health Considerations: High sugar content in Zimtzucker may not be suitable for those managing sugar intake, such as diabetics.
• Storage: Requires airtight storage to prevent clumping and to preserve the cinnamon’s aroma.

Recipes

Homemade Zimtzucker Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Steps:

1. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. Mix thoroughly until the cinnamon is evenly distributed.
3. Store in an airtight container for future use.

Similar Terms

• Cinnamon Sugar: The English equivalent of Zimtzucker, used widely in American and British baking.
• Cassonade à la Cannelle: A French version using unrefined sugar.
• Canela con Azúcar: The Spanish term for a similar blend.

Summary

Zimtzucker is a beloved mixture in German cuisine, offering a sweet and aromatic boost to countless dishes. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavour make it a timeless ingredient for baking, breakfast, and desserts. Whether purchased or homemade, Zimtzucker adds a touch of warmth to everyday meals and festive treats alike.

--