You may not realize it, but sitting on your spice shelf is a functional powerhouse - cinnamon.
To help you get more in your diet, try these five recipes made with The Good Stuff™. If you don't have The Good Stuff™ at home, try it here, and in the meantime, substitute a teaspoon of cinnamon in these recipes.
Why Cinnamon?
Cinnamon has earned its spot as one of the five key ingredients we selected (from a shortlist of more than 30!) in The Good Stuff™, thanks to its long list of natural benefits, including, but not limited to:
Antioxidant Properties: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: The antioxidants in cinnamon contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Cinnamon may help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It achieves this by slowing the rate of gastric emptying and enhancing glucose uptake.
Heart Health: Cinnamon has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Cognitive Benefits: Some research indicates that cinnamon may have protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's. Compounds in cinnamon might help improve cognitive function and memory.
Feeling ready to dial up the cinnamon? Let's get into our favorite cinnamon recipes.
1. Cinnamon Apple Pie Smoothie
If it's too hot for apple pie but you can't kick your craving - try this recipe. It's got all the warming flavor with a refreshing summery twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 scoops ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon oats
- A handful of ice cubes
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and thick.
- Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
2. Cinnamon Raisin Overnight Oats
Try this simple and filling breakfast that you can prepare the night before work!
Instructions:
- Combine 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup almond milk, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 2 scoops of The Good Stuff and and 1/4 cup of raisins in a jar.
- Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, top with honey and sliced banana (optional) and enjoy!
The Good Stuff™ Performance
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One scoop will infuse your coffee with healthy ingredients
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Ditch the bad stuff like sugar, dairy, and artificial creamers
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Fights inflammation and supports skin and joint health
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Makes your coffee taste great
3. Banana-Cinnamon Iced Coffee
If you're uber efficient, this recipe is for you. It's a coffee-smoothie hybrid (two drinks in one!) that's simple, filling and packed with nutrients.
Instructions: Combine 1 frozen banana, two shots of espresso, 1/2 cup almond milk, 2 scoops of The Good Stuff and 1 scoop of vanilla protein (optional) in a blender. Blend until smooth and serve.
4. Greek Yogurt Goodness
This versatile recipe is perfect if you're a granola or oatmeal lover.
Instructions: Add two scoops of The Good Stuff to half a cup of Greek yogurt and add it to your morning cereal. We think it goes great with tiny squeeze of Manuka honey, too!
5. The Good Stuff™ Energy Balls
This recipe is equally delicious using The Good Stuff™ Performance or The Good Stuff™ Focus. Feel free to experiment with fun additions like goji berries, shredded coconut or chopped almonds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of oats (any type of oats will do: rolled, quick, minute oats, etc.)
- 1 1/2 cups of dates - make sure they are soft and moist!
- 1 tbsp of Manuka Honey
- 3 scoops of The Good Stuff™, or you can use half Good Stuff/and half cinnamon
Instructions:
- Add oats to a food processor and blend into a grainy consistency.
- Add dates, honey, and The Good Stuff™ to the grainy oats and mix until a sticky dough is formed. TIP: if the mixture is too crumbly and not sticky enough, mix in a splash of warm water
- Roll dough into balls and then place on a baking sheet or plate. Press firmly onto the balls with your hands or a rolling pin to form flat bar-like shapes
- Serve and enjoy! You can store these bites with The Good Stuff™ in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
These recipes provide a variety of healthy options to start your day with the warm and comforting flavor of cinnamon.
Enjoy!
