There is something incredibly charming and delicious about a Cake in a Jar Recipe that makes dessert time feel extra special. Imagine biting into layers of moist, homemade cake and creamy frosting perfectly nestled inside a mason jar, making it a portable, personal-sized treat that’s as delightful to give as it is to eat. Whether you’re looking for a creative gift idea, a cute party favor, or a fun way to enjoy cake without the hassle of slicing, this recipe brings fun and flavor together in a way that will instantly brighten your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cake in a Jar Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component contributes uniquely to the final texture, taste, and even the stunning look of your jar cakes. From the fluffiness of the flour to the richness of the sour cream, every ingredient plays its part beautifully.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and lightness for the cake base.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with moisture retention.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel warmth and enhances tenderness.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional): For the chocolate version, gives a deep, rich flavor and dark color.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the sour cream to create a tender crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture for a soft, tender bite.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and rich without heaviness.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together while adding a lovely crumb structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s aroma and overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds tangy richness and tender texture.
- Optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles: Personalize your jar cakes with a fun surprise in every bite.
- Frosting of choice for topping (e.g., buttercream or cream cheese frosting): Adds the perfect creamy finish.
- Optional toppings such as fruit, nuts, or crushed cookies: Bring an extra crunch or burst of freshness.
How to Make Cake in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get your oven perfectly warm so your cakes bake evenly. While it’s heating, gather and measure all your ingredients — this keeps your baking smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder if using, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, giving your Cake in a Jar Recipe a consistent rise and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream or Greek yogurt until the mixture is smooth. Combining the wet ingredients separately helps integrate them smoothly into the dry mixture without overworking the batter.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix — a few lumps are okay. At this point, fold in any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles for a delightful surprise in your cake jars.
Step 5: Prepare Jars and Fill
Lightly grease 4 to 6 wide-mouth mason jars to keep the cake from sticking. Fill each jar halfway with batter, leaving enough room for the cake to rise beautifully without spilling over.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled jars on a baking sheet for stability and ease of handling, then bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean. Remove them from the oven and let the jars cool completely before moving on.
Step 7: Add Frosting and Finish
Once the cakes have cooled, top each jar with your frosting of choice. Add any extra toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or crushed cookies to make each jar unique and enticing. If you’re gifting, don’t forget to secure the lids carefully.
How to Serve Cake in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
A simple swirl of buttercream is lovely, but adding fresh berries, sprinkles, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts elevates the jar cake into a stunning, Instagram-worthy treat. These garnishes not only add flavor but bring a splash of color and texture that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cake in a Jar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or tea also pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness and creating a cozy, café-like vibe at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your jar cakes at parties by tying colorful ribbons around the lids or attaching personalized tags. They also work wonderfully as party favors or picnic treats. You can stack the jars in gift baskets or serve them with mini spoons stuck into the lids for a charming touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your already adorable jar cakes are as convenient for storage as they are to eat. Keep leftover cakes covered with their lids and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring they stay moist and fresh.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the baked jars without frosting for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and then add frosting before serving to keep everything tasting freshly baked.
Reheating
When you’re ready to indulge, remove the lids and warm your jar cake gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This light warmth enhances the softness of the cake and slightly melts the frosting for an irresistible effect.
FAQs
Can I use any kind of jar for the Cake in a Jar Recipe?
It’s best to use heat-safe, ovenproof wide-mouth mason jars. They withstand baking temperatures while giving enough space for the cake to rise. Avoid thin glass or jars not designed for oven use to prevent cracks or breakage.
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the cake’s structure and softness.
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative that adds the same tang and moisture. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a mild plant-based yogurt, but results may vary slightly in texture.
What are some good frosting options?
Classic buttercream or cream cheese frosting are crowd-pleasers, but whipped ganache, peanut butter frosting, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar work beautifully, especially if you want to keep things lighter.
How long does Cake in a Jar last once frosted?
Frosted cakes in jars will keep well for about 3 to 4 days when refrigerated. Be sure to keep the lids off while cooling but seal them once chilled for freshness and moisture retention.
Final Thoughts
This Cake in a Jar Recipe is pure joy captured in a charming little container, perfect for sharing a slice of happiness anytime, anywhere. Its effortless preparation, customizable flavors, and adorable presentation make it a personal favorite that never fails to impress. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try — once you do, you’ll see why this recipe has a special place in so many hearts and kitchens.
Print
Cake in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 jars (servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful and portable dessert with this Cake in a Jar recipe. Perfect for gifts, parties, or portion control, these single-serve cakes bake directly in heat-safe mason jars and can be customized with various flavors and toppings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate version)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Optional Mix-ins and Toppings
- Optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles
- Frosting of choice for topping (e.g., buttercream or cream cheese frosting)
- Optional toppings such as fruit, nuts, or crushed cookies
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensuring it reaches the correct temperature before baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder if using, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to create a uniform dry mixture.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream or Greek yogurt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Add Mix-ins: Fold in any optional mix-ins such as chocolate chips or sprinkles if desired, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare Jars: Lightly grease 4 to 6 wide-mouth mason jars to prevent sticking, then fill each jar halfway with the batter, allowing room for rising during baking.
- Bake: Place the filled jars on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the jars from the oven and allow the cakes to cool completely inside the jars.
- Decorate: Once cooled, top each jar with your choice of frosting and any optional toppings like fruit, nuts, or crushed cookies.
- Store or Gift: Secure the lids on the jars if storing the cakes or preparing them as gifts.
Notes
- You can create vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, or funfetti versions by adjusting mix-ins accordingly.
- Use only heat-safe, ovenproof jars to prevent breakage during baking.
- This dessert is perfect for gifts, parties, or portion control indulgences.
- Avoid overfilling jars to allow room for cake rise and prevent overflow.
