Can Babies Have Cinnamon?

Starting solids is a big milestone for babies. Akin to ditching the diapers, or the move from bassinet to crib, there’s just something fun about all these mini-stages they eventually (and rapidly) grow out of.

With the introduction of new foods, things quickly get more exciting with your baby. It’s like suddenly, there are all these different flavors to explore!

“But wait, are there any flavors I should be avoiding”? I mean, what is a baby's palette like anyways?

Besides “what can they eat?” – many parents ask “can I add seasonings?”

Which leads to the popular question (about a popular seasoning), "Can babies have cinnamon?"

Cinnamon is a spice we adults love in everything from lattes to baked goods, but is it safe for babies?

The short answer is YES. but there’s more to know before sprinkling it all over your baby’s food. In this post, we’ll cover when it’s safe to start, how to introduce it, any possible risks, and tips for adding cinnamon to your baby’s diet.

Yes, cinnamon is safe for babies. It’s a spice that’s been used for centuries in cooking, and it’s not considered a common allergen.

That said, some babies may have a sensitivity to it, which can result in a mild skin irritation or rash. This occurs especially if cinnamon comes into direct contact with their skin, like from messy hands and faces after eating (that never happens at my house). Verywell Health talks more in detail about the cinnamon allergy .

But don’t worry! Most babies tolerate cinnamon without any issues, and the chances of a serious allergic reaction are actually quite low.

As with any new food, start with small amounts and wait a few days before introducing other new ingredients, so you can easily spot any sensitivities.

It’s also important to know that there are different types of cinnamon, with Ceylon cinnamon being considered the "true" cinnamon. Ceylon has lower levels of coumarin, a natural compound that, in large quantities, could be harmful to the liver.

The other common type is Cassia cinnamon, which contains more coumarin.

For babies, if you're using cinnamon frequently, it might be worth considering Ceylon cinnamon, but in general, small amounts of either type are fine for little ones.

Once your child is ready for solid foods — usually around 6 months — you can introduce spices, (like salt and pepper) including cinnamon.

There’s no need to rush, though! Some babies take to new tastes right away, while others might need a little more time. And just like with any new food, it’s always good to keep an eye out for any unusual reactions when you first introduce it.

My two little munchkins started tasting cinnamon right at 6 months old. They both loved it and had no problem with it! Of course, every child is different, so take it at your own pace and see how your youngster responds.

Some babies might give you the wide-eyed “what is this?!” look at first (get those cell phones ready to take video), but others might dive right in. Either way, you’re setting the stage for them to become little mini food explorers.

So how much cinnamon should you actually give your baby?

While there’s no hard and fast rule, a pinch or small sprinkle is usually all you need. Babies have delicate palates, so even a little bit of cinnamon can enhance the flavor of their food without overwhelming them.

There’s no need to add cinnamon to every mea – just use it as an occasional flavor boost. Starting with small amounts not only helps your baby get used to the taste but also minimizes any risk of digestive upset. If your baby enjoys the taste and tolerates it well, you can gradually add it to a variety of meals, but always in moderation.

You don’t need to worry too much about the exact amount, but it’s best to avoid overdoing it since cinnamon contains coumarin, which could be harmful in very large quantities.

Keep it light, and your baby will be just fine!

Introducing cinnamon to your baby’s meals is easy and can add some fun variety to their diet. Here are a few simple ways to feed cinnamon to your baby:

• Sprinkle on Purees : A small pinch of cinnamon goes a long way when sprinkled on fruit or vegetable purees. Try it with apple, pear, or sweet potato purees for a naturally sweet, warm flavor.

• Mix into Oatmeal or Porridge : If your baby enjoys baby oatmeal or porridge, stir in a little cinnamon to give it a flavor boost. You can also add mashed banana or applesauce for extra sweetness.

• Baked Goods : As your baby moves onto finger foods, you can make baby-friendly muffins or pancakes with a hint of cinnamon. Just make sure to keep them free of added sugar!

• In Yogurt or Smoothies : Once your baby is ready for dairy or dairy alternatives, you can sprinkle some cinnamon into plain yogurt or mix it into a smoothie with fruit.

Keep it simple and be mindful of adding too many new ingredients at once. Start slow and watch for any signs of sensitivity before incorporating cinnamon into more of your baby’s meals.

Beyond its delicious taste (um, hello this stuff is tasty), cinnamon also comes with some health benefits for your baby. It’s packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body’s cells from damage. Cinnamon is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can support overall health.

Some research even suggests that cinnamon can aid in digestion, which might be helpful for babies dealing with gas or bloating.

Of course, the amounts of cinnamon you’ll be giving your baby are small, so while the health benefits are nice, the real win is that it assists in broadening your baby’s palate. Exposing your little one to a variety of flavors early on can encourage them to be more adventurous eaters as they grow.

Plus, cinnamon is a great way to make healthy foods like fruits and vegetables more appealing, especially if your baby is going through a picky phase!

So, can babies have cinnamon? Absolutely! Cinnamon is a safe and flavorful way to spice up your baby’s meals once they start solids. Just remember to introduce it gradually, start with small amounts, and watch for any signs of irritation or sensitivity.

While cinnamon has some great health benefits, the real advantage is how it can make your baby’s food more exciting and help them develop a love for a variety of flavors.

Whether you’re mixing it into oatmeal, sprinkling it on fruit purees, or baking it into finger foods, cinnamon can be a fun and healthy addition to your baby’s diet. Just keep in mind that just a dash goes a long way, and you don’t need to add it to every meal.

Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know about cinnamon for babies, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen and see how your child enjoys this delicious spice. Happy feeding with Busy Baby!