Hot Cinnamon Candy: The Original Spicy Sweet!

Long before the rise of super-hot peppers and TikTok spice challenges, cinnamon candy was the original “spicy” sweet that set taste buds tingling. But the story of cinnamon begins long before nostalgic candies like Hot Tamales or Red Hots ever hit candy store shelves. Humans have long prized cinnamon as a “hot” commodity for thousands of years.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at the history of cinnamon and its use throughout history, leading us to the modern era, where cinnamon has been a super popular flavor for fall and winter seasons.

A Brief Look at the Long History of Cinnamon in Human Civilization

Cinnamon spice comes from the inner bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus. The dried inner bark is very aromatic and has been sought-after by humans for thousands of years, long before the advent of recorded history. Early cultivation is thought to have begun in regions like China and Sri Lanka, but once it entered the historical record, cinnamon took on a near-mythic reputation. That’s why it was one of the first spices to be traded along ancient trade routes.

The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon oil and cinnamon sticks in embalming rituals, while wealthy Romans considered it a rare luxury fit only for emperors. In fact, the spice was so coveted that fierce trade wars were fought over cinnamon bark harvested from the tropical climates of Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. For centuries, its true origin was shrouded in secrecy, with explorers spinning wild tales about cinnamon being guarded by giant birds or hidden deep in dangerous forests to keep prices sky-high.

Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) soon became the epicenter of the cinnamon trade, and one of the most fiercely contested prizes of the colonial era. The Portuguese first seized control of the island, only to be ousted by the Dutch, who in turn were challenged by the French and eventually the English.

For centuries, whoever controlled Sri Lanka controlled the world’s supply of true cinnamon. By the late 18th century, however, the spice began to spread more widely as saplings were smuggled off the island and cultivated in other tropical climates, from Indonesia to South America. Plantations flourished, and what was once reserved for emperors and the wealthy elite slowly became available to the masses, who could finally experience cinnamon’s culinary delights and health benefits.

The lure of cinnamon (and other spices) was so strong that it even helped shape global exploration. Norse adventurers like Leif Erikson and later explorers such as Christopher Columbus were, in part, searching for faster, cheaper spice routes to Asia. In this way, the global obsession with cinnamon helped pave the way for the discovery of the Americas, which could be seen as proof that this fiery bark has always been a major force throughout human history.

Cinnamon Finds its Way into Popular Foods

As cinnamon spread across Europe and the Americas, it became more than just a symbol of wealth. Bakers used it to sweeten breads and rolls (Mmmmm…. Cinnamon rolls!), and early confectioners quickly discovered how well the spice paired with sugar.

By the 19th century, cinnamon candy was born, a fiery, sweet and spicy treat that offered something totally different from chocolate or fruit-flavored sweets. Powdered sugar and cinnamon oil came together to create bold flavors in everything from hard candy drops to saltwater taffy, laying the foundation for favorites like Big Red gum, Red Hots, and cinnamon bears.

What makes cinnamon so intriguing is that its “heat” isn’t the same as chili peppers. Peppers get their burn from capsaicin, which activates pain receptors on the tongue. Cinnamon’s fiery sensation comes from cinnamaldehyde, a compound unique to cinnamon trees that tricks our senses into feeling warmth. That’s why cinnamon feels cozy in autumn treats like Mexican horchata, but also powerful enough to deliver the spicy punch of Hot Tamales or Jelly Belly jelly beans. It’s a spice that can comfort and challenge your sweet tooth at the same time.

Today, cinnamon candy still holds its place in the modern candy aisle, not only as a nostalgic throwback but also as part of the continuing trend toward bolder, spicier flavors. As fall and winter roll around, cinnamon will be surging in popularity once again, reminding us that this fiery spice has had a deep cultural history. So, let’s take a look at some great cinnamon candies that will truly satisfy your adventurous sweet tooth!

Timeless Cinnamon Candies that Really Pack the Heat!

From the apothecaries of old to the modern candy shop, the quest for cinnamon's unique heat has created some truly iconic treats. From modern-day candy innovations to nostalgic candies from our childhood, cinnamon is a great precursor to creating even more cherished memories. Here’s some great cinnamon candy that really makes us feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside!

Reed’s Rolls – Cinnamon

These original, hard candy lozenges had been delivering a slow-building, mouth-warming glow for nearly a century, until the company went under in 2006. Then, in 2015, Iconic Candy brought back the classic for new generations to enjoy. Unwrap a piece of history and experience the pure, simple, and timeless spice that helped launch a thousand fiery sweets!

Hot Tamales

Just Born’s Hot Tamales are so iconic, we almost could’ve written this entire article about them! Remember “Super-Hot Tamales” in the 1990’s? That was probably the first extremely spicy thing I ever ate when I was a kid! Hot Tamales have been setting mouths ablaze since 1950, earning their title as the best-selling chewy cinnamon candy in America.

Their origin story is a brilliant piece of confectionery ingenuity, invented by Bob Born (son of company founder Sam Born) as a clever way to rework the Mike and Ike formulas by infusing leftover licorice with a powerful kick of cinnamon, creating its iconic, addictive burn. For those who can't get enough heat, the brand also delivers their signature sweet and spicy kick with Hot Tamales Fierce Cinnamon-flavored licorice ropes and cotton candy!

Sweets Cinnamon Gummy Bears

Another iconic cinnamon candy from yesteryear, but don’t let their cute gummy bear faces fool you! These cinnamon bears pack quite a fiery bite! Sweet, chewy, and just the right amount of spicy, they’re a nostalgic favorite that proves cinnamon candy can be both cuddly and bold.

Brown & Haley Cinnamon Toffee Squares

Imagine a churro and a English toffee had a very delicious love child. These dark chocolate–covered cinnamon toffee squares bring the warm spice of cinnamon and sugar together with buttery crunch that is absolutely irresistible!

Chex Mix Muddy Buddies – Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Breakfast cereal meets snack time in this dangerously addictive mashup. Coated in powdered sugar with that unmistakable Cinnamon Toast Crunch flavor, these muddy buddies hit the perfect balance of cozy sweetness and cinnamon spice.

The Original Red Hots

Don't let their small size fool you! Ferrara Candy's iconic Red Hots have been delivering a massive cinnamon explosion since the 1930s. That classic movie theater box contains a powerhouse of spicy, crunchy goodness that's perfect for snacking, baking, or even (bravely) pairing with your popcorn! Do it… We dare you!

Wrigley's Big Red Chewing Gum

Big Red is the original classic cinnamon gum. Need a breath freshener that actually announces its presence? This legendary gum packs a fiery cinnamon punch in every chew, offering a spicy rush that's as bold as its name. Pro tip: always keep a pack handy for a burst of flavor and a boost of confidence anytime, anywhere.

Claeys Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Hard Candies

Some flavors are timeless for a reason. Claeys Candy has been perfecting the art of the simple, satisfying cinnamon drop in South Bend, Indiana since 1919. These classic hard candies offer a slow, steady burn of warm cinnamon flavor, delivering a pure and nostalgic spicy-sweet kick that will never go out of style!

Hotlix Cinnamon Toothpicks

Infused with real cinnamon oil, Hotlix turns a simple after-snack habit into a spicy kick of flavor you can carry in your pocket to help freshen your breath, or to just enjoy as a sweet and spicy little wooden treat!

Wiley Wallaby Hot Cinnamon Licorice

Soft, chewy, and unapologetically bold, Wiley Wallaby’s hot cinnamon licorice is a must for anyone who loves their sweets with a little fire! One bite, and you’ll see why my kids keep telling me this licorice “really slaps!”

Chuao Spicy Maya Dark Chocolate Bar

Inspired by the flavors of ancient civilizations, this dark chocolate bar layers cinnamon, pasilla chile, and cayenne pepper for a highly sophisticated sweet-and-spicy experience. It’s history and indulgence, all wrapped in one delicious square!

Breaking Bad Los Pollos Hermanos Horchata Soda

“Taste the Family” at Los Pollos Hermanos! This Mexican horchata soda by Rocket Fizz pays homage to the iconic chicken restaurant featured in the hit AMC series Breaking Bad. It’s sweet, creamy, spiced with cinnamon, and the perfect way to quench your thirst. Just don’t get on Gus Fring’s bad side!

From ancient Egyptian rituals to cinnamon rolls, Red Hots, and even horchata soda, cinnamon has been warming hearts and spicing up our sweet tooth cravings for millennia. It’s a flavor that bridges the gap between nostalgic comfort and modern boldness. It’s equally at home in grandma’s kitchen as it is in today’s hottest candy aisle trends. Whether you prefer it cozy or fiery, cinnamon candy proves that some classics never cool off.

Want to stock up on timeless favorites and discover the next big thing in candy? Sign up for an account with us today or give one of our customer service representatives a call. We can’t wait to show you why we are America’s favorite candy distributor!

1-800-444-3520