This paper reports the synthesis of Co2SnO4@C core–shell nanostructures through a simple glucose hydrothermal and subsequent carbonization approach. The as-synthesized Co2SnO4@C core–shell nanostructures have been applied as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, which exhibit improved cyclic performance compared to pure Co2SnO4 nanocrystals. The carbon matrix has good volume buffering effect and high electronic conductivity, which may be responsible for the improved cyclic performance.