For anyone who enjoys getting creative at their home bar, making your own infusions can be a really rewarding project. It gives you complete control to craft a spirit that’s perfectly suited to your taste. While we spent a long time perfecting the balance of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker in our whiskey, you can start your own flavor experiment with something much simpler: cinnamon. Making your own whiskey with cinnamon notes is incredibly easy and requires just a few ingredients. We’ll show you how to do it step-by-step, plus offer tips on finding great store-bought options and using them to create simple, delicious cocktails you can make tonight.
Key Takeaways
- Choose based on your taste for sweet or spice: Cinnamon whiskeys vary from sugary, candy-like spirits to those with a fiery, complex heat, so deciding which you prefer is the first step to picking the right bottle.
- You don’t need complicated recipes: Enjoy this spirit with simple mixers you already have; add a shot to hot chocolate for a cozy treat or mix it with ginger ale for a refreshing highball.
- Make your own for a custom flavor: Creating a cinnamon whiskey infusion at home is a straightforward project that gives you complete control over the final spice level, ensuring it’s perfect for your palate.
What Is Cinnamon Whiskey?
If you’ve ever had a spicy-sweet “Atomic Fireball” candy, you already have a good idea of what cinnamon whiskey is all about. It’s a type of flavored whiskey known for its bold, warm, and spicy character, making it a popular choice for all sorts of occasions. This spirit is incredibly versatile; it’s the kind of drink people love to enjoy as a fun shot with friends, mix into creative cocktails, or sip slowly on a chilly evening to warm up from the inside out.
The world of cinnamon whiskey is surprisingly diverse. While some bottles deliver that intense, fiery cinnamon kick, others offer a gentler, sweeter spice. It’s a fun category to explore, especially if you’re a fan of warm, comforting flavors. Think of it as a close cousin to other sweet and spiced spirits, like our own S’mores Whiskey, which shares that same goal of turning a familiar flavor into a memorable drink. Whether you’re new to flavored whiskey or a seasoned pro, there’s a cinnamon spirit out there for you.
Sweet vs. Spicy: Finding Your Flavor
As you start exploring, you’ll notice that cinnamon whiskeys fall on a spectrum from sugary-sweet to intensely spicy. Some brands go all-in on the heat, giving you a powerful cinnamon blast that really tingles. Others lean into the sweetness, creating a smoother, more dessert-like experience. You can also find bottles that mix cinnamon with other complementary flavors like apple, vanilla, or even ginger. The best way to find what you like is to try a few different cinnamon whiskey brands. Think about whether you prefer a fiery kick or a gentle, warming spice, and use that as your guide.
What to Taste: Nose, Palate, and Finish
Tasting whiskey is a full sensory experience, and it’s often broken down into three parts: the nose, palate, and finish. The “nose” is what you smell when you first bring the glass to your face. For a cinnamon whiskey, you might notice that bold cinnamon aroma, maybe with hints of vanilla or oak. The “palate” is what you taste when the whiskey is in your mouth. This is where you’ll get that classic sweet and spicy cinnamon candy flavor. Finally, the “finish” is the aftertaste that lingers once you’ve swallowed. A good cinnamon whiskey often leaves you with a warm, sugary finish and a pleasant touch of heat.
Our Favorite Whiskeys with Cinnamon Notes
While we’re partial to the chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker notes in our own S’mores Whiskey, we have a soft spot for its spicy cousin: cinnamon whiskey. The warm, fiery kick of cinnamon can be a perfect complement to a smooth whiskey base. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. If you love exploring unique flavors, you’re in the right place. We’ve broken down some of our favorite cinnamon whiskeys by price to help you find the perfect bottle for your budget and your taste buds. And if you find you love a good flavored spirit, you can always buy a bottle of our signature whiskey online.
Budget-Friendly Picks (Under $20)
You don’t need to spend a lot to get your cinnamon fix. Evan Williams Fire is a great starting point, offering a pleasant, spicy-sweet cinnamon flavor that’s well-rounded and not too syrupy. It’s a quality choice that delivers a warm, satisfying experience without breaking the bank. Of course, we have to mention the most famous one: Fireball Cinnamon Whisky. It’s incredibly popular for a reason, but it’s definitely on the sweeter, more candy-like side. With a thick texture and a powerful red-hot cinnamon taste that lingers, it’s a party favorite that masks much of the underlying whiskey flavor, as noted in a ranking of cinnamon whiskeys.
Great Mid-Range Options ($20–$40)
If you’re willing to spend a little more, you’ll find whiskeys that offer more complexity and balance. Hot Cinnamon Bird Dog Whiskey is a standout, delivering a strong cinnamon kick alongside notes of vanilla, brown sugar, and even a hint of apple. It manages to feel like a dessert while still letting the whiskey character come through. Another solid choice in this price range is Cinerator Hot Cinnamon Whiskey. It’s known for bringing intense heat, but it’s a smooth, satisfying burn that’s perfect for sipping slowly. It strikes a great balance between sweetness and spice, making it a satisfying and robust option for those who like it hot.
Top-Shelf Sips ($40+)
For those looking for a more refined and craft-oriented experience, the top shelf has some incredible options. Breckenridge Spiced Whiskey is a fantastic choice for serious whiskey drinkers. It has complex aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, and allspice that might remind you of a Thanksgiving pie, with a solid heat that complements the whiskey instead of overpowering it. If you value authenticity, look no further than Wigle Cinnamon Whiskey. This award-winning spirit is made with real Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon sticks and contains no artificial colors or flavors. It’s a testament to what happens when you combine quality whiskey with real, natural ingredients, creating a truly authentic and delicious sip.
Find the Right Whiskey for Your Taste
Not all cinnamon whiskeys are created equal. Some are sweet like candy, while others bring a fiery heat that will warm you from the inside out. Figuring out which bottle to bring home starts with knowing what you like. Do you have a major sweet tooth, or are you looking for a spirit with a spicy kick? Maybe you prefer something crafted with all-natural ingredients. Let’s find the perfect profile for your palate.
If You Have a Sweet Tooth
If you’re looking for a smooth, sweet treat, you’re in luck. Many popular cinnamon whiskeys are designed to taste like liquid candy. These spirits lead with sugary, cinnamon-bun flavors and have a warm, pleasant finish without an aggressive burn. Think of them as the dessert of the whiskey world. Brands like Fireball Cinnamon Whisky are famous for this style, hitting you with a candy sweetness first and a gentle, spicy warmth second. They’re incredibly easy to sip on their own or mix into simple, sweet cocktails.
If You’re a Spice Seeker
For those who want their whiskey to have a bit of a bite, a spice-forward option is the way to go. These whiskeys don’t shy away from heat. They offer an intense, fiery cinnamon kick that provides a satisfyingly warm burn. While the spice is the main event, the best ones still have a balanced flavor profile with notes of vanilla or brown sugar underneath the heat. There are many cinnamon whiskey brands that cater to spice lovers, delivering a bold experience that’s great for sipping slowly and savoring the tingle.
If You Love Craft Spirits
If you prioritize natural ingredients and small-batch quality, the craft spirits aisle is for you. These producers often use real cinnamon sticks, not artificial flavorings, to create a more authentic and nuanced taste. For example, Wigle Cinnamon Whiskey is made with two types of real cinnamon and a base of local wheat and barley. This approach results in a spirit where the whiskey character isn’t completely masked. You get the warmth of cinnamon alongside the genuine taste of the grain, offering a well-rounded and thoughtfully made drink.
How to Make Your Own Cinnamon Whiskey
If you love the warm, comforting spice of cinnamon, you’ll be happy to know how easy it is to make your own infused whiskey at home. This simple project lets you create a spirit that’s perfectly tailored to your taste, from a gentle warmth to a fiery kick. It’s a fantastic way to experiment with flavors and create something truly unique for your home bar.
What You’ll Need
You only need a few simple items to get started on your infusion. First, grab a bottle of whiskey. A bourbon will give your final product a sweeter, smoother base, while a rye whiskey will add a bit of peppery spice that complements the cinnamon. Next, you’ll need whole cinnamon sticks, as ground cinnamon will make your whiskey cloudy. For equipment, a large glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, like a mason jar, is perfect. If you want to add a little more complexity, you can also toss in one or two whole cloves, but be careful not to add too many, as their flavor can easily become overpowering.
A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to start infusing? The process is incredibly straightforward. Just follow these simple steps to create your signature cinnamon whiskey.
- Combine your ingredients. Pour your chosen whiskey into the clean glass jar and add your cinnamon sticks (and cloves, if you’re using them). A good starting point is two to four cinnamon sticks per 750ml bottle of whiskey.
- Store it. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark spot like a pantry or cabinet. This protects the infusion from sunlight, which can alter the flavor.
- Taste test. Let the whiskey infuse for at least three to four days, then start tasting it. Give the jar a gentle shake and pour a small amount to see how the flavor is developing.
- Strain and store. Once the whiskey reaches your ideal level of spice, use a fine-mesh sieve to strain out the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Pour the finished whiskey back into its original bottle or another clean bottle for storage.
Tips for the Perfect Flavor
The beauty of making your own infusion is that you have complete control. If you prefer a subtle cinnamon note, a few days of infusing might be all you need. For a much stronger, spicier flavor, you can let it infuse for a week or even longer. Just keep taste-testing every couple of days so it doesn’t get too intense. If you accidentally let it go too long and the flavor is too strong, don’t worry. You can easily mellow it out by mixing in a little more of the original, un-infused whiskey until you get it just right. Your homemade creation is perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into drinks. It pairs especially well with apple, making it a perfect addition when you make an apple cider cocktail or a classic hot toddy.
Easy Whiskey Cocktails to Make Tonight
Once you’ve found a whiskey you love, the fun part is figuring out all the ways you can enjoy it. You don’t need a cabinet full of fancy liqueurs and bitters to craft a delicious drink. Often, the best cocktails are the simplest, letting the flavor of the spirit shine through. Whiskeys with warm notes of cinnamon, toasted marshmallow, and graham cracker are especially versatile and perfect for mixing up a quick drink.
Whether you’re winding down on a chilly evening or looking for a simple party-pleaser, there’s an easy way to enjoy your favorite flavored whiskey. These ideas require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor, proving that a great cocktail can be just moments away. For more inspiration, you can always explore a list of curated cocktails designed to highlight unique whiskey flavors.
Warm and Cozy Cocktails
There’s nothing better than a warm drink on a cool night. Creating a comforting cocktail is as easy as spiking your favorite hot beverage. For a drink that tastes like liquid apple pie, try adding one or two ounces of a whiskey with cinnamon or graham cracker notes to a mug of hot apple cider. The warm spices in the whiskey will blend beautifully with the sweet, tart cider. Another fantastic option is to add a shot of S’mores Whiskey to your hot chocolate for an instant boozy mocha that brings campfire vibes right to your couch.
Cool and Refreshing Mixes
When you’re in the mood for something crisp and bubbly, a simple highball is the way to go. These two-ingredient drinks are effortless and endlessly refreshing. Just pour a shot of your chosen whiskey over ice in a tall glass and top it with a fizzy mixer. Ginger ale is a classic choice that adds a gentle spice, while cream soda can pull out the vanilla and marshmallow notes in a flavored whiskey. For a truly decadent treat, try mixing a s’mores-flavored whiskey with root beer to create a grown-up root beer float.
Simple and Fun Whiskey Shots
Sometimes, you just want to enjoy the flavor of the whiskey in a straightforward and fun way. Serving it as a chilled shot is a great option for sharing with friends. Keep your bottle in the freezer for an hour before serving for an extra smooth experience. To take it a step further, you can easily create a dessert-style shot. Try rimming a shot glass with chocolate syrup or garnishing with a single mini marshmallow. It’s a simple touch that makes the experience feel a little more special and playful.
How to Drink Cinnamon Whiskey
So you’ve found a cinnamon whiskey you love, but what’s the best way to enjoy it? The great thing about this spirit is its versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple, straightforward sip or want to mix up a creative drink, cinnamon whiskey is up for the task. It’s all about what you enjoy, so let’s walk through a few classic ways to drink it and find what works for you. Exploring different methods will help you appreciate the full range of what your bottle has to offer, from its spicy kick to its sweet, warming finish.
Sipping It Neat or On the Rocks
One of the best ways to get to know a new whiskey is to try it by itself. Pouring it “neat” (that’s just a straight pour into a glass, no ice) lets you savor its rich flavors and experience the distiller’s intended profile. If you find it a bit too intense, try it “on the rocks” by adding a large ice cube. As the ice melts, it will slightly dilute the whiskey, mellowing the alcohol burn and opening up new layers of aroma and taste. There’s no right or wrong answer here; it’s all about personal preference. Start neat, and if you want, add a cube to see how the character changes.
Perfect Food Pairings
Cinnamon whiskey’s warm spice makes it a fantastic partner for food, especially desserts. Think about flavors that naturally go with cinnamon. Apple pie, a warm chocolate brownie, or even a simple bowl of vanilla ice cream can be a perfect match. During colder months, its warming quality shines in drinks like hot toddies or spiked apple cider. These pairings create a truly delightful tasting experience. If you’re feeling creative, you can even use it as an ingredient in your dessert, like a whiskey-infused caramel sauce. For more inspiration on mixing flavors, check out some fun cocktail recipes that play with sweet and spicy notes.
Where to Buy Cinnamon Whiskey
Ready to add a bottle of cinnamon whiskey to your bar cart? Its popularity means you have plenty of options, whether you’re shopping at your local liquor store or browsing online. The key is knowing what to look for so you can find a bottle that perfectly suits your taste for spice and sweet.
Finding It Online and In Stores
Cinnamon whiskey is widely available, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding it. One of the most recognizable brands is Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, a liqueur that combines a Canadian whisky base with cinnamon flavoring and sweeteners. It’s a go-to for shots and is sold almost everywhere. If you’re looking for a more authentic flavor experience, you might prefer a craft option like Wigle Whiskey. This distillery uses real Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon, which creates a more nuanced and less sugary spirit perfect for sipping or mixing into a quality cocktail.
What to Look For on the Label
Taking a moment to read the label can save you from disappointment. It’s important to make sure you’re actually buying whiskey. Some mini bottles of popular brands are classified as malt beverages, not whiskey, a detail that has led to some legal scrutiny. The label will tell you the spirit type and alcohol content. It can also give you clues about the flavor. If you prefer a more natural taste, you might find that a homemade cinnamon whiskey is a great project, as many commercial versions contain artificial flavors and a lot of sugar. Checking the ingredients helps you make an informed choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between cinnamon whiskey and a cinnamon liqueur? The main difference comes down to the base spirit and sugar content. A true cinnamon whiskey starts with an actual whiskey base that is then flavored with cinnamon. A cinnamon liqueur, however, might use a neutral spirit base instead of whiskey and legally must contain a higher amount of sugar. This is why many popular, candy-like options are technically liqueurs, as their sweetness is the dominant characteristic.
I tried a popular cinnamon whiskey and it was too sweet. Are there less sugary options available? Yes, absolutely. Many people’s first experience is with a very sweet, candy-like brand, but the category is much broader than that. For a spirit that focuses more on authentic spice than sugar, look for craft whiskeys. These producers often use real cinnamon sticks and less sweetener, which allows the warm spice and the character of the base whiskey to come through in a more balanced way.
Why do you recommend using whole cinnamon sticks instead of ground cinnamon for a homemade infusion? Using whole cinnamon sticks is key to getting a clean, clear final product. Ground cinnamon is very fine and will not fully dissolve, resulting in a cloudy, gritty texture that is difficult to strain out. Whole sticks infuse a pure, potent flavor into the whiskey and can be easily removed once you’ve achieved the perfect level of spice, leaving you with a smooth spirit.
Besides apple cider, what are some other simple mixers that go well with cinnamon whiskey? Cinnamon whiskey pairs well with a variety of simple mixers. For a crisp and refreshing highball, try it with ginger ale, as the ginger’s spice complements the cinnamon perfectly. Cream soda is another excellent choice that pulls out the whiskey’s sweeter notes. You can also mix it with cola for a spicy take on a classic combination or with root beer to create a simple, dessert-like cocktail.
Is cinnamon whiskey only good for shots or drinking in the winter? Not at all, though it is great for those things. While it’s famous as a party shot and a perfect ingredient for warm winter drinks, it’s much more versatile. You can enjoy it as a slow-sipper by pouring it over a large ice cube, which mellows the intensity and opens up the flavor. It also works wonderfully in cool, refreshing drinks year-round, especially when mixed with a bubbly soda.
