"Spice Cake In A Jar"

Prep: 20 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A moist spice cake baked in jars with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect for gifting or easy individual servings, combining rich flavors and a charming presentation.

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Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup shortening
  • 2 2/3 cups sugar
  • 2 cups applesauce
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 4 eggs
  • 2/3 cup nuts (optional)
  • 3 1/3 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Cream shortening and sugar; add applesauce, water, and eggs and mix well.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in another bowl and add to the first mixture.
  3. Add nuts or raisins if desired.
  4. Spray wide-mouth pint jars with Pam and fill about halfway.
  5. Bake at 325°F exactly 45 minutes.
  6. Remove jars one at a time and quickly screw the lid on each jar.
  7. Let set until ready to eat.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have nuts on hand, consider using chocolate chips or dried fruit instead. Ensure your jars are clean and sterilized before use for safety. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately helps prevent lumps in the batter, leading to a smoother cake texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spice cake warm from the jar, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Cat Leveen'S Original Ice Cream for a delightful dessert. This cake also pairs beautifully with Whatever Vegetable Salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover spice cake in a jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Ensure the lids are tightly sealed to maintain moisture. To reheat, simply remove the lid and microwave for 20-30 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of "Spice Cake In A Jar" contains roughly 1531 calories, with 10g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).

1531 kcal 77% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.1g 20% DV
Total Fat 121.2g 100% DV
Carbs 113.1g 41% DV
Fiber 11.9g 42% DV
Sugar 34.9g 70% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2019.8mg 88% DV
Potassium 631.6mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 75.5mg 25% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 10.3mg 11% DV
Calcium 657.2mg 51% DV
Iron 6.1mg 34% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture may become denser. Gluten-free flour blends can also work, though adjustments in moisture may be needed.

How can I tell when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the baking time, but also note that different ovens may vary slightly.

Can I freeze the spice cake in jars?

Yes, you can freeze the spice cake in jars. Allow the cake to cool completely, then seal tightly and freeze for up to three months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

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).

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