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Baking Staples

Photo attribution:

Flickr: isabel*la

Photo attribution:

Flickr: Nomadic Lass

Photo attribution:

Flickr: mommyknows { Kim Becker }

Foods Included

White Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Vanilla Extract, Almond Extract, Cocoa Powder

Description

Baking staples are considered common ingredients used for baking anything from bread to cookies. If you plan on baking, these ingredients are great to keep in your kitchen for convenience and to reduce extra trips to the store.

Buy It

Look for unopened flour bags and spices to ensure freshness.
Buy smaller amounts of spices if possible since the strength of the flavor fades over time. Try to use it before the expiration date.
Check the expiration dates on baking powder and baking soda since they are less effective after they expire.

Learn about your local Farmer's Markets

Store It

Store in a cool, dry place (like a pantry or cupboard)
Whole wheat flour should be stored in the refrigerator so it doesn't spoil.

Cook It

Try using half white flour and half whole wheat flour in your favorite baked goods recipes.
Some recipes call for more sugar than they need. Experiment with using less sugar in the recipe. It usually still tastes plenty sweet!