Holiday Spices in the Pantry

Fall is the time when we do a lot of baking. This is a great time to clean out and organize your Spice Cabinet and Pantry.

What is the shelf life of spices?

Spices that are stored in airtight containers can last for a long time but they do lose their strength over time.

Whole Spices such as cloves, allspice, cumin, and cardamom can last up to 4 years.

Ground Spices can last up to 3 years.

Herbs can last for approx 1 year.

Seasoning Blends can last for approx 1 year.

Extracts can last for up to 3 years.

A good way to tell if your ground spices, herbs and seasoning blends are still in full flavor is to smell them - if they have little smell, it is time to replace them.

It is best not to store your spices near the stove (heat) or close to your sink/dishwasher (humidity) - herbs and spices should be stored in a cool, dark place in your kitchen or pantry.

Be sure to check the dates on your baking powder, baking soda, yeast, bouillon cubes, cornstarch, cocoa powder, chocolate pieces, etc.

When in doubt - throw it out!

Holiday Spices:

Common spices and ingredients used in fall cooking and holiday baking: cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, almond extract, brown sugar, molasses.

Spices for Holiday Turkey: sage, thyme, poultry seasoning

Spices for Holiday Goose: sage, poultry seasoning

Spices for Holiday Duck: dill, mint, rosemary, sage, tarragon, poultry seasoning

If you get your spices and pantry in order now, you will be ready for all the Holiday baking ahead!

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