Pumpkin Cakes in a Jar 🎃
Description
Indulge in the delightful charm of these Pumpkin Cakes in a Jar, adorable treats baked snugly within pint-sized canning jars, making them perfect for gifting or keeping around the house for up to 6 months. With a soft, moist texture and warm, comforting flavors, these cakes are sure to become a favorite during the festive season or any time you crave a sweet treat. 🍰✨
Special Equipment: 8 pint-size canning jars with smooth sides and wide mouths to ensure easy removal of the cakes.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8 jars
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shortening | 2/3 cup |
| Sugar | 2 2/3 cups |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Baking soda | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground cloves | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 1/8 tsp |
| Water | 2/3 cup |
| Canned pumpkin | 2 cups |
| Flour | 3 1/2 cups |
| Pecans | 2/3 cup |
| Walnuts | 2/3 cup |
Instructions
-
Preparation:
- Cream together the shortening and sugar until smooth. Then, add the eggs, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground ginger. Alternately add water and flour to the mixture until well combined. Stir in the pecans and walnuts along with the canned pumpkin.
- Wash the 8 pint-size jars thoroughly in hot soapy water, then dry them completely. Grease the insides of the jars using a brush dipped in melted shortening.
-
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the greased jars on a baking sheet and fill each jar halfway with the batter, ensuring to wipe the rims clean. Bake on the middle rack for 35 to 45 minutes until the cakes are cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Sealing:
- While the cakes are baking, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat and place the lids and rings in the hot water, allowing them to sit until ready for use.
- Once the cakes are done, carefully remove the jars from the oven one at a time. Place a lid on each jar, then add the ring and screw it tightly. Allow the jars to cool completely. As they cool, they will seal on their own, ensuring freshness.
-
Presentation:
- If you plan to give these cakes as gifts, cover the lids with pretty fabric and attach a card containing the name of the cake, the date it was made, and the expiration date.
- For personal use, simply write this information directly on the lid with a marker.
-
Serving and Storage:
- When you’re ready to enjoy the cakes, simply run the jar under hot tap water for a few seconds to loosen the cake if it doesn’t come out easily, or microwave it with the lid removed for 2 seconds.
- Once opened, consume the cake within 2 days and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for freshness.
Additional Information
For those concerned about canning safety, please refer to the guidance provided by Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service. While these jar cakes are not recommended for canning due to their low acidity and the potential for bacterial growth, they can still be enjoyed when stored properly. It’s essential to follow safe handling and storage practices to ensure the longevity and safety of these delightful treats. 🎉
Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of these Pumpkin Cakes in a Jar, perfect for cozy gatherings, thoughtful gifts, or simply indulging in a little taste of autumn any time of the year! 🍂🍁
