Keep the kick in your cinnamon stick

It happens every year: You buy spices and nuts for holiday baking. Then, months later, the spices have lost their oomph and the nuts have gone rancid.

Because they have such a high oil content, nuts should be frozen in air-tight containers. They will last at least a year, but you should taste them before using to detect any off-flavors. Store spices in tight jars in a cool, dark place. The aroma should be strong when reopened.

Source: The Associated Press

(c) Copyright 1999. The Christian Science Publishing Society