Ask Ms. Jilly– Basic Baking Spices

A reader asks:  ” What advice would you give for someone starting out in the kitchen?  What are common spices to have on hand when you’re baking?

Well, I love to cook and I’m a big fan of baking so this was an easy one!

1. Cinnamon– I use this spice all of the time!  Great for use in apple bread, cookies, cinnamon rolls, cakes etc. I like it on toast too! Or you can do the cinnamon challenge- NOT!!

2. Nutmeg– I don’t use this one as often but I have used it in cookies, cake and especially on french toast!

3. Vanilla– Vanilla is not a powdered spice, but it is an essential for the kitchen when baking!  My favorite is the Watkins double strength vanilla, but any pure vanilla extract will work.

4. Cocoa– Another necessity in my kitchen is cocoa.  It can be used in cakes, creams, drinks and toppings.  My favorite use for cocoa is in hot chocolate.  I may have a slight obsession with hot chocolate.  Guilty as charged!

Thanks to those of you who have submitted questions!  Next time on Ask Ms. Jilly I will be covering Basic spices used in cooking!

Have a great week!