Autumn Baking Spices – How to Store Cinnamon, Vanilla, and Cloves

Autumn is the season when warming aromas take over the kitchen – from sweet cinnamon and rich vanilla to spicy cloves. These spices give baked goods their distinctive flavour and fragrance, but to enjoy them for longer without losing their qualities, it’s important to know how to store them properly.

Cinnamon – Delicate Yet Long-Lasting

Cinnamon sticks keep their aroma much longer than ground cinnamon, so it’s best to buy them in this form. Store them in an airtight jar, away from light and moisture. A dark cupboard, far from heat sources like the oven, is ideal. If you buy ground cinnamon, try to use it within a few months to enjoy its full flavour.

Vanilla – Luxurious and Demanding

Vanilla pods are a true treasure among spices. Keep them in a glass container with an airtight seal at room temperature. Another great method is to store them in alcohol – a small bottle of rum or vodka prevents them from drying out and also gives you a homemade vanilla extract. Never put vanilla pods in the fridge – they can harden and lose their signature aroma.

Cloves – Small but Intensely Fragrant

Whole cloves keep their freshness best. Store them in a dark, tightly sealed glass jar. In this form, they can last for years without losing their strong aroma. If you use them often, avoid grinding large amounts in advance – once ground, cloves quickly lose their strength and fragrance.

Summary

Proper storage is the key to keeping spices aromatic and flavourful. Airtight jars, protection from light and moisture, and avoiding high temperatures will ensure that your autumn bakes always smell just as they should – warm, rich, and comforting.