Cake in a Jar Recipe is a delightful and creative way to enjoy dessert. These portable treats are perfect for gifts, parties, and holidays. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also offer endless customization options. Whether you want to make them fun for kids with colorful sprinkles or sophisticated with gourmet flavors, Cake in a Jar makes every occasion special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Customizable Treats: You can easily adapt this Cake in a Jar Recipe with different flavors and toppings.
- Perfect for Gifting: These jars make thoughtful gifts that friends and family will love receiving.
- Easy to Transport: The jars allow you to take your dessert anywhere without worrying about spills.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time for unexpected guests or events.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve children in the decorating process for a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Cake in a Jar Recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mason jars (5)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Baking tray
Importance of Each Tool
- Mason jars: Ideal for layering cake and frosting while keeping it fresh.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures your batter is perfectly blended.
- Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients.
Ingredients
Cake in a Jar or Mason Jar Cakes are a fun, portable, and customizable dessert, perfect for gifts, parties, and holidays!
For the Cake
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbs cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 2 tbs canola oil
- ⅓ cup milk (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla
- ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
For the Frosting
- 1 stick unsalted butter (omit added salt if using salted butter)
- 1.5-2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
- Pinch salt
Servings: 5
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 100 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 824 kcal, Carbs: 102 g, Protein: 6 g, Fat: 45 g, Saturated Fat: 25 g, Cholesterol: 103 mg, Sodium: 411 mg, Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 74 g
How to Make Cake in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Begin by washing your mason jars thoroughly. Ensure they are completely dry before adding any ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Whisk until blended to ensure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add egg whites one at a time while mixing well after each addition.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add canola oil, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Sprinkles
Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles with a rubber spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Pour batter into prepared mason jars up to two-thirds full. Place them on a baking tray and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare Frosting
While cakes cool:
1. Beat softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy.
2. Add vanilla and enough milk or cream to achieve desired consistency.
Step 9: Layer Cakes
Once cakes are cool:
1. Layer cake pieces with frosting inside each jar.
2. Finish with additional sprinkles on top for decoration.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Cake in a Jar!
How to Serve Cake in a Jar Recipe
Cake in a Jar Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. These charming desserts can be served in various ways to enhance the experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests.
For a Party
- Add Whipped Cream: Top your cake with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
- Sprinkle More Toppings: Use extra rainbow sprinkles or crushed cookies to add texture.
As a Gift
- Decorate the Jar: Tie a ribbon around the jar and attach a handwritten note for a personal touch.
- Layered Presentation: Use different colored layers of cake or frosting to make it visually appealing.
For Kids
- Fun Straw and Spoon: Include colorful straws and mini spoons for an enjoyable eating experience.
- Character Themes: Decorate jars with characters or themes that kids love, like superheroes or princesses.
At Family Gatherings
- Serve with Ice Cream: Pair your cake jar with scoops of ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature.
- Create a Dessert Table: Arrange multiple flavors of Cake in a Jar for variety and visual appeal.
How to Perfect Cake in a Jar Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Cake in a Jar Recipe, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures even mixing and helps the cake rise properly.
- Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain the right consistency.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Cool Before Layering: Allow the cake layers to cool before adding frosting to prevent melting.
- Seal Tightly: When storing, seal jars tightly to keep cakes fresh longer.
Best Side Dishes for Cake in a Jar Recipe
Enhancing your Cake in a Jar Recipe with delightful side dishes can elevate any dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement this treat perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Offer various toppings, sauces, and ice cream flavors for guests to create their own sundaes.
- Chocolate Fondue: Serve with skewers of fruit, marshmallows, or cookies for dipping.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs beautifully with sweet desserts like cake in a jar.
- Mini Cookies: Serve bite-sized cookies alongside for added crunch and variety.
- Pudding Cups: Light chocolate or vanilla pudding cups can provide a creamy contrast to the cake’s texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Cake in a Jar Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Not letting ingredients reach room temperature: Cold ingredients can lead to uneven baking. Allow butter, eggs, and milk to sit out before mixing.
- Overfilling the jars: Filling jars too much can cause spills during baking. Leave about an inch of space at the top for the cake to rise.
- Skipping the cooling process: Removing cakes from jars while warm can lead to breakage. Let them cool completely before serving or storing.
- Neglecting flavor variations: Sticking to just one flavor can be boring. Experiment with different extracts, spices, or mix-ins like fruit or nuts for variety.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Cake in a Jar in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking jars to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cake in a Jar Recipe
- Freeze your cakes if you need longer storage (up to 3 months).
- Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Label with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Cake in a Jar Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place jar on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Remove lid and heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm. Check regularly to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place jar in a pot with simmering water, cover, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize my Cake in a Jar Recipe?
You can customize your Cake in a Jar by adding various flavors like chocolate chips, fruit purees, or different extracts. This allows you to create unique combinations that suit your taste.
Can I make this Cake in a Jar Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
What types of frosting work best with this recipe?
Buttercream frosting is popular, but cream cheese frosting adds tanginess. You can also try whipped cream or ganache for different textures and flavors.
How long does the Cake in a Jar stay fresh?
When refrigerated properly, your Cake in a Jar stays fresh for up to 5 days. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months without losing quality.
Can I use any jar for this recipe?
Yes! Any mason jar or oven-safe glass jar works well. Just ensure they are labeled as safe for baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cake in a Jar Recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can easily personalize it with different flavors and toppings, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a gift or a treat for yourself, these cakes are sure to impress. Give it a try – you’re bound to enjoy its delightful charm!
Cake in a Jar
Indulge in the delightful world of Cake in a Jar, where portable dessert meets creativity! This fun and charming treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or looking for an easy gift. Each jar is a sweet surprise, customizable with your favorite flavors and toppings. From vibrant sprinkles that appeal to children to sophisticated gourmet options for adults, Cake in a Jar is sure to impress everyone. Plus, they are easy to transport and require minimal prep time, making them the ultimate go-to dessert. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this whimsical twist on traditional cake!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 5
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbs cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 2 tbs canola oil
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
- ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
- 1 stick unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 1.5–2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla (for frosting)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (for frosting)
- Pinch salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare five mason jars by washing and drying them thoroughly.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add egg whites while mixing well.
- Mix in canola oil, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients without overmixing. Gently fold in rainbow sprinkles.
- Pour batter into prepared jars up to two-thirds full and bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool before layering with frosting made from creamed butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 824
- Sugar: 74g
- Sodium: 411mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 102g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 103mg
Keywords: For extra flavor variations, consider adding chocolate chips or fruit purees. Make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
