Garlic and Onion. Sweet Basil is the third. I know some don't consider celery a spice, yet that would be a fourth along with red pepper.
Onion , Celery and Peppers (red and green) are considered apart of the Cajun Trinity.
I don't make much without garlic and onion though. Preferably freshly chopped, yet powdered might do in a pinch. Or right down lazy! 🙃
For baking cookies and breads and cakes, it's got to be ground Star anise. I have my own grinder for that.
I have yet to even try saffron. It's solid only online and expensive as heck. Like trying to buy real truffles without anything else. Same expense.