Cinnamon comes from the barks of trees, generally from young shoots cut close to the ground once very two years in the rainy season. Cinnamon is not just for baking. I find it adds an interesting twist to chili. Ginger adds a nice warm touch to foods. Add ginger not only to traditional gingerbread, but also in marinades for chicken, fish, or pork.
Mace is very good sprinkled over steamed baby carrots.
Try grating your own fresh nutmeg with a nutmeg grater for best results. To get the flavor of food bursting with sweet spices, wake up by preparing the warm moist muffin below for breakfast. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Combine remaining ingredients in a large bowl.