Tropical Delight Jar Cake: A Taste of Paradise

Tropical Vacation Cake in a Jar

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 8 pint size jars

Calories: 764.8 per serving

Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the tropics with this adorable pint-sized cake baked right into a jar, sealed to preserve its freshness for up to 6 months. Whether you’re looking for a charming gift idea or a convenient treat to have on hand for your family, this Tropical Vacation Cake in a Jar is sure to delight with its fusion of pineapple, banana, nuts, and spices. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite tropical fruits and nuts. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious jar cake flavors for more sweet inspiration!

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup shortening
• 2 2/3 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2/3 cup water
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup pecans, chopped
• 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 3/4 cup crushed pineapple
• 1 banana, mashed

Special Equipment:

• 8 pint-size canning jars with smooth sides and wide mouths (to ensure easy removal of the cake)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in the baking soda, salt, baking powder, and spices until well combined.
   • Alternately add the water and flour to the batter, mixing until smooth.
   • Fold in the chopped pecans, walnuts, mashed banana, and crushed pineapple until evenly distributed.

2. Preheat and Grease:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Using a brush dipped in melted shortening, generously grease 8 pint-size canning jars, ensuring to coat the bottoms and sides thoroughly.

3. Fill the Jars:

   • Fill each greased jar halfway with the prepared batter, taking care not to overfill.
   • Use a clean cloth to wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a proper seal.

4. Bake:

   • Place the filled jars on a sturdy baking sheet and transfer to the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.

5. Seal the Jars:

   • While the cakes are baking, prepare a pot of boiling water.
   • Once the cakes are done, remove the jars from the oven one at a time and immediately place a lid on each jar, followed by the ring.
   • Screw the lids on tightly to create a seal, and allow the jars to cool completely.
   • As the jars cool, they will naturally seal, preserving the freshness of the cakes for up to 6 months.

6. Gift Presentation:

   • If giving these cakes as gifts, wrap each jar lid with a piece of pretty fabric and attach a card detailing the name of the cake, the date it was made, and the expiration date.
   • Alternatively, you can simply write this information directly on the lid using a marker for a more casual presentation.

7. Enjoy!

   • When you’re ready to enjoy a taste of the tropics, simply unscrew the lid from the jar.
   • If the cakes do not release easily, run the outside of the jar under warm tap water for a few seconds or heat in the microwave with the lids removed for 2 seconds to loosen.
   • Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Additional Notes:
While these jar cakes are a charming and convenient way to enjoy homemade treats, it’s important to note that they are not recommended for traditional canning methods due to the low acid content and potential for bacterial growth. For safe consumption, be sure to follow proper storage and handling guidelines.