30 Best Cinnamon Beers: Stouts, Pumpkin Ales & Holiday Spice

THE CINNAMON BOARD · UPDATED 2026

Cinnamon can be excellent in beer, but it is easy to overdo. The spice works best when it has something substantial to connect: cacao, chile, coffee, pumpkin, honey, dark fruit, toasted malt, barrel character, or bright fruit acidity.

This Top 30 ranks beers where cinnamon is a meaningful part of the flavor architecture, not a stray tasting-note guess. The list deliberately moves beyond pumpkin ale, covering Mexican-chocolate stouts, holiday ales, horchata-inspired beer, barrel-aged releases, pastry sours, fruit cobblers, and a non-alcoholic fireside pour.

The 30 Best Cinnamon Beers

Perennial Abraxas
#1 in this roundup
Beer profile

Perennial Abraxas

Brewed by Perennial Artisan Ales

StyleSpiced Imperial Stout
ABV10.0%
Cinnamon roleearthy bridge between cacao and ancho chile: cacao nibs, ancho chile, cinnamon, and vanilla in a dense imperial stout
Brewed inSt. Louis, Missouri

Perennial Abraxas uses cinnamon as earthy bridge between cacao and ancho chile, while spiced imperial stout supplies the structure. The spice stays structural instead of dusty…

BAR NOTES

Perennial Abraxas ranks #1 because it builds cacao nibs, ancho chile, cinnamon, and vanilla in a dense imperial stout. Cinnamon functions as earthy bridge between cacao and ancho chile, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve a four-ounce pour at 50–55°F in a snifter. Pair it with mole, flourless chocolate cake, or blue cheese. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Hunahpu's Imperial Stout
#2 in this roundup
Beer profile

Hunahpu's Imperial Stout

Brewed by Cigar City Brewing

StyleSpiced Imperial Stout
ABV12.5%
Cinnamon rolearomatic lift inside a massive chile-cacao stout: cacao, cinnamon, vanilla, chile, and massive roasted-malt depth
Brewed inTampa, Florida

Hunahpu's Imperial Stout uses cinnamon as aromatic lift inside a massive chile-cacao stout, while spiced imperial stout supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer…

BAR NOTES

Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout ranks #2 because it builds cacao, cinnamon, vanilla, chile, and massive roasted-malt depth. Cinnamon functions as aromatic lift inside a massive chile-cacao stout, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve a small pour at 52–56°F in a snifter and let it warm. Pair it with dark chocolate, smoked brisket, or aged Gouda. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Westbrook Mexican Cake
#3 in this roundup
Beer profile

Westbrook Mexican Cake

Brewed by Westbrook Brewing Co.

StyleSpiced Imperial Stout
ABV10.5%
Cinnamon rolewarming counterweight to cocoa and habanero: cocoa nibs, vanilla, cinnamon, and habanero with controlled heat
Brewed inMount Pleasant, South Carolina

Westbrook Mexican Cake uses cinnamon as warming counterweight to cocoa and habanero, while spiced imperial stout supplies the structure. It earns a return pour because cinnamon…

BAR NOTES

Westbrook Mexican Cake ranks #3 because it builds cocoa nibs, vanilla, cinnamon, and habanero with controlled heat. Cinnamon functions as warming counterweight to cocoa and habanero, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour five ounces at 50–54°F into a tulip. Pair it with churros, mole poblano, or salty roasted nuts. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Stone Xocoveza
#4 in this roundup
Beer profile

Stone Xocoveza

Brewed by Stone Brewing

StyleMexican Hot Chocolate Stout
ABV8.1%
Cinnamon rolebaking-spice layer tying coffee to chile: cacao, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and pepper warmth
Brewed inEscondido, California

Stone Xocoveza uses cinnamon as baking-spice layer tying coffee to chile, while mexican hot chocolate stout supplies the structure. The finish has enough contrast to avoid…

BAR NOTES

Stone Xocoveza ranks #4 because it builds cacao, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and pepper warmth. Cinnamon functions as baking-spice layer tying coffee to chile, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 48–52°F in a snifter so coffee and spice stay distinct. Pair it with coffee cake, cinnamon churros, or smoked beef. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

No Rules Vietnamese Porter
#5 in this roundup
Beer profile

No Rules Vietnamese Porter

Brewed by Perrin Brewing Co.

StyleBourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Porter
ABV15.0%
Cinnamon rolefragrant spice cutting coconut and barrel sweetness: coconut, cinnamon, bourbon oak, vanilla, and a formidable porter base
Brewed inComstock Park, Michigan

No Rules Vietnamese Porter uses cinnamon as fragrant spice cutting coconut and barrel sweetness, while bourbon barrel-aged imperial porter supplies the structure. The spice…

BAR NOTES

No Rules Vietnamese Porter ranks #5 because it builds coconut, cinnamon, bourbon oak, vanilla, and a formidable porter base. Cinnamon functions as fragrant spice cutting coconut and barrel sweetness, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Treat it as a nightcap: four ounces around 54°F in a snifter. Pair it with coconut macaroons, pecan pie, or sharp cheddar. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Hardywood Gingerbread Stout
#6 in this roundup
Beer profile

Hardywood Gingerbread Stout

Brewed by Hardywood Park Craft Brewery

StyleImperial Milk Stout
ABV9.2%
Cinnamon rolecookie spice supporting ginger and honey: Virginia ginger, wildflower honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and creamy stout
Brewed inRichmond, Virginia

Hardywood Gingerbread Stout uses cinnamon as cookie spice supporting ginger and honey, while imperial milk stout supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer…

BAR NOTES

Hardywood Gingerbread Stout ranks #6 because it builds Virginia ginger, wildflower honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and creamy stout. Cinnamon functions as cookie spice supporting ginger and honey, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 48–52°F in a tulip, not refrigerator-cold. Pair it with gingerbread, roast ham, or vanilla ice cream. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Great Lakes Christmas Ale
#7 in this roundup
Beer profile

Great Lakes Christmas Ale

Brewed by Great Lakes Brewing Co.

StyleSpiced Christmas Ale
ABV7.5%
Cinnamon rolesignature spice sharpened by fresh ginger: fresh honey, ginger, cinnamon, toast, and caramel malt
Brewed inCleveland, Ohio

Great Lakes Christmas Ale uses cinnamon as signature spice sharpened by fresh ginger, while spiced christmas ale supplies the structure. It earns a return pour because cinnamon…

BAR NOTES

Great Lakes Christmas Ale ranks #7 because it builds fresh honey, ginger, cinnamon, toast, and caramel malt. Cinnamon functions as signature spice sharpened by fresh ginger, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 44–48°F into a nonic pint or tulip. Pair it with roast duck, sugar cookies, or aged cheddar. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Dragon's Milk Reserve Oatmeal Cookie
#8 in this roundup
Beer profile

Dragon's Milk Reserve Oatmeal Cookie

Brewed by New Holland Brewing

StyleBourbon Barrel-Aged Stout
ABV11.0%
Cinnamon roleoatmeal-cookie cue inside bourbon stout: oats, raisins, cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla, bourbon, and dark roast
Brewed inHolland, Michigan

Dragon's Milk Reserve Oatmeal Cookie uses cinnamon as oatmeal-cookie cue inside bourbon stout, while bourbon barrel-aged stout supplies the structure. The finish has enough…

BAR NOTES

Dragon’s Milk Reserve Oatmeal Cookie ranks #8 because it builds oats, raisins, cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla, bourbon, and dark roast. Cinnamon functions as oatmeal-cookie cue inside bourbon stout, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve four to six ounces at 50–55°F in a snifter. Pair it with oatmeal cookies, bread pudding, or blue cheese. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Southern Tier Pumking
#9 in this roundup
Beer profile

Southern Tier Pumking

Brewed by Southern Tier Brewing Company

StyleImperial Pumpkin Ale
ABV8.6%
Cinnamon rolepumpkin-pie backbone: pumpkin pie, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and buttery pastry character
Brewed inLakewood, New York

Southern Tier Pumking uses cinnamon as pumpkin-pie backbone, while imperial pumpkin ale supplies the structure. The spice stays structural instead of dusty or sugary.

BAR NOTES

Southern Tier Pumking ranks #9 because it builds pumpkin pie, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and buttery pastry character. Cinnamon functions as pumpkin-pie backbone, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 46–50°F into a tulip and allow the aroma to open. Pair it with pumpkin pie, roast turkey, or sharp cheddar. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Schlafly Pumpkin Ale
#10 in this roundup
Beer profile

Schlafly Pumpkin Ale

Brewed by Schlafly Beer

StylePumpkin Ale
ABV8.0%
Cinnamon rolecentral baking spice over real pumpkin: baked pumpkin, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and a rich malt center
Brewed inSt. Louis, Missouri

Schlafly Pumpkin Ale uses cinnamon as central baking spice over real pumpkin, while pumpkin ale supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer recognizable beneath the spice.

BAR NOTES

Schlafly Pumpkin Ale ranks #10 because it builds baked pumpkin, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and a rich malt center. Cinnamon functions as central baking spice over real pumpkin, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 45–49°F in a tulip rather than an oversized pint. Pair it with roast pork, pumpkin bread, or nutty cheese. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Saint Arnold Pumpkinator
#11 in this roundup
Beer profile

Saint Arnold Pumpkinator

Brewed by Saint Arnold Brewing Company

StyleImperial Pumpkin Stout
ABV10.5%
Cinnamon rolewarm spice against roast and molasses: dark chocolate, molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and roasted pumpkin
Brewed inHouston, Texas

Saint Arnold Pumpkinator uses cinnamon as warm spice against roast and molasses, while imperial pumpkin stout supplies the structure. It earns a return pour because cinnamon…

BAR NOTES

Saint Arnold Pumpkinator ranks #11 because it builds dark chocolate, molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and roasted pumpkin. Cinnamon functions as warm spice against roast and molasses, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour a small serving at 50–54°F into a snifter. Pair it with pecan pie, smoked brisket, or blue cheese. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Dogfish Head Punkin Ale
#12 in this roundup
Beer profile

Dogfish Head Punkin Ale

Brewed by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery

StylePumpkin Brown Ale
ABV7.0%
Cinnamon rolebrown-ale spice supporting pumpkin and sugar: brown sugar, pumpkin flesh, cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted brown-ale malt
Brewed inMilton, Delaware

Dogfish Head Punkin Ale uses cinnamon as brown-ale spice supporting pumpkin and sugar, while pumpkin brown ale supplies the structure. The finish has enough contrast to avoid…

BAR NOTES

Dogfish Head Punkin Ale ranks #12 because it builds brown sugar, pumpkin flesh, cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted brown-ale malt. Cinnamon functions as brown-ale spice supporting pumpkin and sugar, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 45–48°F in a tulip or nonic pint. Pair it with roast turkey, brown-sugar ham, or cheddar. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Tröegs Mad Elf
#13 in this roundup
Beer profile

Tröegs Mad Elf

Brewed by Tröegs Independent Brewing

StyleBelgian-Style Strong Ale
ABV11.0%
Cinnamon rolesubtle holiday spice under cherry and honey: ripe cherry, clover honey, cocoa, cinnamon, clove, and Belgian warmth
Brewed inHershey, Pennsylvania

Tröegs Mad Elf uses cinnamon as subtle holiday spice under cherry and honey, while belgian-style strong ale supplies the structure. The spice stays structural instead of dusty…

BAR NOTES

Tröegs Mad Elf ranks #13 because it builds ripe cherry, clover honey, cocoa, cinnamon, clove, and Belgian warmth. Cinnamon functions as subtle holiday spice under cherry and honey, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour four to six ounces at 48–52°F in a Belgian tulip. Pair it with cherry tart, roast duck, or washed-rind cheese. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Prairie Barrel Aged Christmas Bomb!
#14 in this roundup
Beer profile

Prairie Barrel Aged Christmas Bomb!

Brewed by Prairie Artisan Ales

StyleBarrel-Aged Spiced Imperial Stout
ABV13.9%
Cinnamon roleholiday warmth inside barrel-aged stout: coffee, chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon-like spice, whiskey, and oak
Brewed inKrebs, Oklahoma

Prairie Barrel Aged Christmas Bomb! uses cinnamon as holiday warmth inside barrel-aged stout, while barrel-aged spiced imperial stout supplies the structure. That balance keeps…

BAR NOTES

Prairie Barrel Aged Christmas Bomb! ranks #14 because it builds coffee, chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon-like spice, whiskey, and oak. Cinnamon functions as holiday warmth inside barrel-aged stout, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve slowly at 52–56°F in a snifter. Pair it with chocolate truffles, coffee cake, or blue cheese. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Or Xata
#15 in this roundup
Beer profile

Or Xata

Brewed by The Bruery

StyleHorchata blonde ale
ABV7.2%
Cinnamon rolehorchata's defining spice: horchata-inspired rice, cinnamon, vanilla, and a clean blonde-ale base
Brewed inPlacentia, California

Or Xata uses cinnamon as horchata's defining spice, while horchata blonde ale supplies the structure. It earns a return pour because cinnamon never becomes the whole point.

BAR NOTES

Or Xata ranks #15 because it builds horchata-inspired rice, cinnamon, vanilla, and a clean blonde-ale base. Cinnamon functions as horchata’s defining spice, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 44–48°F into a tulip or stemmed glass. Pair it with churros, rice pudding, or spicy tacos. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Corsendonk Christmas Ale
#16 in this roundup
Beer profile

Corsendonk Christmas Ale

Brewed by Brouwerij Corsendonk

StyleBelgian Strong Dark Ale
ABV8.1%
Cinnamon roledry spice within Belgian dark fruit: raisin, plum, caramel, clove, cinnamon, and Belgian dark-ale fermentation
Brewed inTurnhout, Belgium

Corsendonk Christmas Ale uses cinnamon as dry spice within Belgian dark fruit, while belgian strong dark ale supplies the structure. The finish has enough contrast to avoid…

BAR NOTES

Corsendonk Christmas Ale ranks #16 because it builds raisin, plum, caramel, clove, cinnamon, and Belgian dark-ale fermentation. Cinnamon functions as dry spice within Belgian dark fruit, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 48–52°F in a Belgian goblet. Pair it with fruitcake, roast duck, or aged Comté. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Thirsty Dog 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale
#17 in this roundup
Beer profile

Thirsty Dog 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale

Brewed by Thirsty Dog Brewing Co.

StyleSpiced Christmas Ale
ABV8.0%
Cinnamon roleholiday spice bound together by honey: honey, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, caramel, and dried fruit
Brewed inAkron, Ohio

Thirsty Dog 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale uses cinnamon as holiday spice bound together by honey, while spiced christmas ale supplies the structure. The spice stays structural…

BAR NOTES

Thirsty Dog 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale ranks #17 because it builds honey, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, caramel, and dried fruit. Cinnamon functions as holiday spice bound together by honey, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 46–50°F into a tulip. Pair it with ginger cookies, glazed ham, or sharp cheddar. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Samuel Adams Old Fezziwig
#18 in this roundup
Beer profile

Samuel Adams Old Fezziwig

Brewed by Samuel Adams

StyleSpiced Brown Ale
ABV5.9%
Cinnamon rolebright spice lifting toffee and orange: toffee, ginger, orange peel, cinnamon, and soft brown-ale roast
Brewed inBoston, Massachusetts

Samuel Adams Old Fezziwig uses cinnamon as bright spice lifting toffee and orange, while spiced brown ale supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer recognizable…

BAR NOTES

Samuel Adams Old Fezziwig ranks #18 because it builds toffee, ginger, orange peel, cinnamon, and soft brown-ale roast. Cinnamon functions as bright spice lifting toffee and orange, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 44–48°F in a nonic pint. Pair it with roast pork, orange cake, or nutty cheese. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Samuel Adams Winter Lager
#19 in this roundup
Beer profile

Samuel Adams Winter Lager

Brewed by Samuel Adams

StyleSpiced Dark Wheat Lager
ABV5.6%
Cinnamon roleclean lager-friendly winter spice: cinnamon, ginger, orange peel, wheat, and bock-like lager malt
Brewed inBoston, Massachusetts

Samuel Adams Winter Lager uses cinnamon as clean lager-friendly winter spice, while spiced dark wheat lager supplies the structure. It earns a return pour because cinnamon…

BAR NOTES

Samuel Adams Winter Lager ranks #19 because it builds cinnamon, ginger, orange peel, wheat, and bock-like lager malt. Cinnamon functions as clean lager-friendly winter spice, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 42–46°F into a clean lager glass or mug. Pair it with bratwurst, roast chicken, or ginger cookies. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Elysian Night Owl
#20 in this roundup
Beer profile

Elysian Night Owl

Brewed by Elysian Brewing

StylePumpkin Ale
ABV6.7%
Cinnamon roleclassic pumpkin-ale seasoning: pumpkin purée and seeds with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, and caramel
Brewed inSeattle, Washington

Elysian Night Owl uses cinnamon as classic pumpkin-ale seasoning, while pumpkin ale supplies the structure. The finish has enough contrast to avoid candle-shop territory.

BAR NOTES

Elysian Night Owl ranks #20 because it builds pumpkin purée and seeds with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, and caramel. Cinnamon functions as classic pumpkin-ale seasoning, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 44–48°F in a tulip. Pair it with pumpkin bread, roast turkey, or mild cheddar. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Cigar City Good Gourd
#21 in this roundup
Beer profile

Cigar City Good Gourd

Brewed by Cigar City Brewing

StyleImperial Pumpkin Ale
ABV8.8%
Cinnamon roleimperial pumpkin spice: pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, allspice, and dark caramel
Brewed inTampa, Florida

Cigar City Good Gourd uses cinnamon as imperial pumpkin spice, while imperial pumpkin ale supplies the structure. The spice stays structural instead of dusty or sugary.

BAR NOTES

Cigar City Good Gourd ranks #21 because it builds pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, allspice, and dark caramel. Cinnamon functions as imperial pumpkin spice, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 46–50°F into a tulip and let the malt warm. Pair it with spice cake, smoked pork, or aged Gouda. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Atomic Pumpkin
#22 in this roundup
Beer profile

New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Atomic Pumpkin

Brewed by New Belgium Brewing

StyleSpiced Pumpkin Ale
ABV6.4%
Cinnamon roleSaigon cinnamon paired with chile heat: Saigon cinnamon, pumpkin, habanero, de árbol chile, and caramel malt
Brewed inFort Collins, Colorado

New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Atomic Pumpkin uses cinnamon as Saigon cinnamon paired with chile heat, while spiced pumpkin ale supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer…

BAR NOTES

New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Atomic Pumpkin ranks #22 because it builds Saigon cinnamon, pumpkin, habanero, de árbol chile, and caramel malt. Cinnamon functions as Saigon cinnamon paired with chile heat, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 44–48°F in a tulip, where the chile can open gradually. Pair it with chile-lime chicken, mole, or cinnamon doughnuts. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Left Hand Pumpkin Spice Latte Nitro
#23 in this roundup
Beer profile

Left Hand Pumpkin Spice Latte Nitro

Brewed by Left Hand Brewing Company

StyleNitro Pumpkin Coffee Ale
ABV7.0%
Cinnamon rolecoffeehouse spice softened by nitrogen: coffee, cinnamon, pumpkin, vanilla, caramel, and a creamy nitrogen pour
Brewed inLongmont, Colorado

Left Hand Pumpkin Spice Latte Nitro uses cinnamon as coffeehouse spice softened by nitrogen, while nitro pumpkin coffee ale supplies the structure. It earns a return pour…

BAR NOTES

Left Hand Pumpkin Spice Latte Nitro ranks #23 because it builds coffee, cinnamon, pumpkin, vanilla, caramel, and a creamy nitrogen pour. Cinnamon functions as coffeehouse spice softened by nitrogen, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 42–46°F into a nonic pint to show the nitro texture. Pair it with coffee cake, pumpkin bread, or smoked bacon. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Funky Fluid Gelato Szarlotka
#24 in this roundup
Beer profile

Funky Fluid Gelato Szarlotka

Brewed by Funky Fluid

StylePastry Sour
ABV5.5%
Cinnamon roleapple-pie seasoning against acidity: apple, cinnamon, pastry sweetness, vanilla, and bright sour acidity
Brewed inWarsaw, Poland

Funky Fluid Gelato Szarlotka uses cinnamon as apple-pie seasoning against acidity, while pastry sour supplies the structure. The finish has enough contrast to avoid candle-shop…

BAR NOTES

Funky Fluid Gelato Szarlotka ranks #24 because it builds apple, cinnamon, pastry sweetness, vanilla, and bright sour acidity. Cinnamon functions as apple-pie seasoning against acidity, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve cold at 40–44°F in a small tulip. Pair it with apple turnover, vanilla ice cream, or salty fries. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Uakari
#25 in this roundup
Beer profile

Uakari

Brewed by Half Acre Beer Co.

StyleBarrel-Aged Imperial Stout
ABV13.2%
Cinnamon rolebarrel-derived cinnamon-like spice: apple-brandy oak, Amburana-like cinnamon, dark chocolate, vanilla, and licorice
Brewed inChicago, Illinois

Uakari uses cinnamon as barrel-derived cinnamon-like spice, while barrel-aged imperial stout supplies the structure. The spice stays structural instead of dusty or sugary.

BAR NOTES

Uakari ranks #25 because it builds apple-brandy oak, Amburana-like cinnamon, dark chocolate, vanilla, and licorice. Cinnamon functions as barrel-derived cinnamon-like spice, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour four ounces at 52–56°F into a snifter. Pair it with apple tart, dark chocolate, or washed-rind cheese. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Bourbon County Apple Crisp Stout
#26 in this roundup
Beer profile

Bourbon County Apple Crisp Stout

Brewed by Goose Island Beer Co.

StyleBarrel-Aged Imperial Stout
ABV14.6%
Cinnamon roleapple-crisp seasoning over bourbon stout: baked apple, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, oats, bourbon, and imperial stout
Brewed inChicago, Illinois

Bourbon County Apple Crisp Stout uses cinnamon as apple-crisp seasoning over bourbon stout, while barrel-aged imperial stout supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer…

BAR NOTES

Bourbon County Apple Crisp Stout ranks #26 because it builds baked apple, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, oats, bourbon, and imperial stout. Cinnamon functions as apple-crisp seasoning over bourbon stout, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve a small pour at 52–56°F in a snifter. Pair it with apple crisp, blue cheese, or smoked pork. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Silhouette: Apple Cider Donut
#27 in this roundup
Beer profile

Silhouette: Apple Cider Donut

Brewed by Hudson Valley Brewery

StyleSour IPA
ABV5.0%
Cinnamon rolecinnamon-sugar pastry cue: apple, cinnamon sugar, vanilla, tart wheat, and citrusy hop aroma
Brewed inBeacon, New York

Silhouette: Apple Cider Donut uses cinnamon as cinnamon-sugar pastry cue, while sour ipa supplies the structure. It earns a return pour because cinnamon never becomes the whole…

BAR NOTES

Silhouette: Apple Cider Donut ranks #27 because it builds apple, cinnamon sugar, vanilla, tart wheat, and citrusy hop aroma. Cinnamon functions as cinnamon-sugar pastry cue, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 40–44°F into a tulip while the fruit and hops are fresh. Pair it with cider doughnuts, sharp cheddar, or fried chicken. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Oh My, Apple Pie
#28 in this roundup
Beer profile

Oh My, Apple Pie

Brewed by Heritage Hill Brewhouse

StyleApple Pie Ale
ABV5.5%
Cinnamon roleapple-pie spice over biscuit malt: orchard apple, cinnamon, biscuit malt, vanilla, and restrained sweetness
Brewed inPompey, New York

Oh My, Apple Pie uses cinnamon as apple-pie spice over biscuit malt, while apple pie ale supplies the structure. The finish has enough contrast to avoid candle-shop territory.

BAR NOTES

Oh My, Apple Pie ranks #28 because it builds orchard apple, cinnamon, biscuit malt, vanilla, and restrained sweetness. Cinnamon functions as apple-pie spice over biscuit malt, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 42–46°F in a stemmed glass. Pair it with apple pie, roast pork, or farmhouse cheddar. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Peach Cobbler Ale
#29 in this roundup
Beer profile

Peach Cobbler Ale

Brewed by Flying Dog Brewery

StylePeach Cobbler Ale
ABV5.9%
Cinnamon rolecobbler spice supporting ripe peach: baked peach, cinnamon, vanilla, biscuit malt, and nutmeg
Brewed inFrederick, Maryland

Peach Cobbler Ale uses cinnamon as cobbler spice supporting ripe peach, while peach cobbler ale supplies the structure. The spice stays structural instead of dusty or sugary.

BAR NOTES

Peach Cobbler Ale ranks #29 because it builds baked peach, cinnamon, vanilla, biscuit malt, and nutmeg. Cinnamon functions as cobbler spice supporting ripe peach, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Pour at 42–46°F into a tulip. Pair it with peach cobbler, grilled pork, or vanilla ice cream. Availability can be limited by batch or market, so confirm the current release and package date before buying. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

Athletic Lodge Life
#30 in this roundup
Beer profile

Athletic Lodge Life

Brewed by Athletic Brewing Company

StyleNon-Alcoholic Fireside Brew
ABVLess than 0.5%
Cinnamon rolefireside spice without full-strength alcohol: cinnamon, cocoa, vanilla, toasted malt, and a less-than-0.5% body
Brewed inMilford, Connecticut

Athletic Lodge Life uses cinnamon as fireside spice without full-strength alcohol, while non-alcoholic fireside brew supplies the structure. That balance keeps the beer…

BAR NOTES

Athletic Lodge Life ranks #30 because it builds cinnamon, cocoa, vanilla, toasted malt, and a less-than-0.5% body. Cinnamon functions as fireside spice without full-strength alcohol, giving the beer connection and aromatic lift rather than the dry, powdery impression that makes poorly handled spice beer exhausting.

Serve at 40–44°F in a nonic pint. Pair it with oatmeal cookies, toasted nuts, or mild cheddar. This is a seasonal or limited-release beer, so verify the current package and brewery calendar before making a special trip. Cinnamon aroma, coffee, fruit, and other delicate additions generally fade sooner than the beer’s alcohol or dark malt.

What cinnamon contributes to beer

Cinnamon contributes aroma more readily than sweetness. Depending on dose and variety, it can suggest dry wood, red-hot candy, pastry crust, cola, cocoa, or warm citrus. Dark malt and cacao emphasize its earthy side; vanilla and lactose make it seem sweeter; chile turns the same spice toward Mexican hot chocolate.

Some barrel woods—especially Amburana—can also create an intense cinnamon-like character without cinnamon being the central addition. That distinction is worth knowing because barrel-derived spice often arrives with coconut, vanilla, balsam, and toasted wood.

The difference between good and bad cinnamon beer

Good cinnamon beer has contrast. Roast, bitterness, acidity, alcohol, salt, ginger, fruit, or chile keeps the aroma connected to a complete drink. Bad cinnamon beer tastes dusty, woody, and monotonous because the spice sits above the base beer instead of joining it.

Temperature matters too. Strong stouts and barrel-aged beers reveal more detail as they warm, while pumpkin lagers and fruit sours benefit from a cooler pour. If cinnamon dominates immediately, give the glass a few minutes; sweetness and malt often emerge with warmth.

How brewers add cinnamon

Brewers can steep whole sticks, use tinctures, dose ground spice carefully, or add cinnamon during conditioning. Whole spice is easier to separate but still requires tasting and timing. Ground cinnamon has enormous surface area and can become harsh or difficult to clarify when used carelessly.

For homebrewers, the safest method is usually a measured tincture or a small post-fermentation addition with frequent tasting. It is much easier to add another increment than to rescue a finished batch that tastes like dry potpourri.

KEEP THE FLIGHT GOING

Follow the spice rack

Cinnamon changes character depending on what surrounds it: cacao and chile make it earthy, pumpkin and pastry make it nostalgic, while fruit, coffee, honey, and dark malt pull it in completely different directions.

Karl S
BEHIND THE BAR

Written by Karl S

Lead marketer, brewer, dad, and husband. Pretty much an all-round awesome guy. Self proclaimed coffee addict who's been home brewing beer (among other things) for 25+ yrs. Also an aspiring pro-brewer and micro-brewery owner!

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