To perk up chocolate chip cookies, add 1/2 tsp. cinnamon along with the flour. Try adding 1/2 tsp. almond extract, too.

To flavor up a pot roast, add a cinnamon stick to the braising liquid.

For hot chocolate with a spicy aroma, stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon.

To make rice pilaf with more flavor, add a cinnamon stick to the simmering liquid.  This trick is perfect for rice that will accompany Indian or Mexican dishes.

For grain salads with a Moroccan flair, add
cinnamon and almonds. This tip works well for rice, couscous, barley, and other grain salads, especially if the dressing includes lemon juice and olive oil.

To make spiced coffee, brew 4 C. strong coffee, adding 1 tsp. ground cinnamon to the coffee grounds (this trick works well in a drip-style coffee maker).

For a new twist on baked rigatoni, make the tomato sauce with sausage, onion, garlic, and cinnamon.

To enhance the flavor of brownies, stir 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon into the flour for an 8-inch square pan of brownies.

To boost the taste of your favorite pie crust, add 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon to the dough for a 2-crust pie.