🇬🇷 Greece · Drinks
Traditional Greek Kanelada (Cinnamon Syrup Drink)
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
A fragrant and refreshing non-alcoholic Greek drink, Kanelada is made from a homemade cinnamon syrup. This aromatic elixir, often served chilled with ice and diluted with water, offers a delightful sweet and spicy flavor perfect for a warm afternoon or as a unique festive beverage.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Gather 4-5 cinnamon sticks, about 8-10 cm long. You can lightly break them to expose more surface area, enhancing the flavor extraction.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, combine 500ml (2 cups) of water and 500g (2 cups) of granulated sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture is clear.
- 3
Add the cinnamon sticks to the sugar syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the cinnamon's aromas to fully infuse.
- 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely to room temperature. Allow the cinnamon sticks to steep in the syrup during cooling for maximum flavor. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon) if you desire a hint of tartness.
- 5
Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the cinnamon sticks. Pour the Kanelada syrup into a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Store it in the refrigerator.
- 6
To serve, fill a glass with ice. Add 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) of Kanelada syrup, then top with 150-200ml (about 3/4 cup) of cold water, or sparkling water for a bubbly twist. Stir well and enjoy this refreshing, aromatic drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade Kanelada syrup last?+
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade Kanelada syrup can last for up to 3-4 weeks. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the syrup?+
Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness. For a less sweet syrup, reduce the sugar to 400g (1 ¾ cups). For a sweeter concentrate, increase to 600g (2 ½ cups), but always keep the water constant for desired consistency.
What kind of cinnamon sticks should I use?+
For the best flavor, use Ceylon cinnamon sticks, often labeled as "true cinnamon," as they offer a more delicate and complex aroma compared to the stronger Cassia cinnamon.
Can I use ground cinnamon instead of sticks?+
It's strongly recommended to use cinnamon sticks for Kanelada. Ground cinnamon will make the syrup cloudy and difficult to strain, and it can also result in a less nuanced, more powdery flavor.
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