Canning Jar Bread
Canning Jar Bread offers a moist, flavorful pumpkin-spiced treat perfect for sharing during holidays or cozy gatherings. Its rich aroma combines pumpkin, cinnamon, and cloves, complemented by crunchy pecans. Ideal for gifting or quick snacks, this baking project yields charming, individual portions in wide-mouth jars.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry the canning jars.
- Use 8 pint-sized wide-mouth canning jars or 5 to 6 wide-mouth pint and a half jars.
- Grease the jars well.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Cream shortening and sugar; add eggs and water, beating well.
- Add pumpkin and mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Stir dry ingredients into pumpkin mixture with a spoon.
- Add chopped pecans if desired.
- Fill each jar halfway full with batter.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove jars one at a time from the oven.
- Put a scalded lid on each jar and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. If you want to add some variation, consider mixing in chocolate chips or dried cranberries. Be sure to adjust baking time if using larger jars, as they may require additional minutes. Remember to check for doneness with a toothpick. This recipe is inspired by other American recipes that use similar methods.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Canning Jar Bread warm with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. This bread also makes a great gift for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, seal the jars and store them in a cool, dark place. They can last for several weeks. To reheat, simply place the jar in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly in the jar as it may not heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canning Jar Bread contains roughly 896 calories, with 11g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1752mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or even omit nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that different nuts can slightly alter the flavor and texture of the bread, but it will still be delicious.
What can I do if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can use an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options will provide a rich flavor. Just be sure to soften the butter or melt the coconut oil before mixing with sugar for a smooth batter.
Can I freeze the Canning Jar Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the jars after they have cooled completely. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the jars for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).