A Guest Post: Cake in a Jar

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What could be better right?! My youngest sister, Becka, got crafty in the kitchen last week and was sweet enough to share her recipe and tips with us. Becka's fiance is in the Air Force and is currently serving over-seas.  The distance between the two of them is the motivation behind this yummy treat. So read below and enjoy a 'guest post' from Becka :)

Hi I'm Becka! Like my sister, I love a good craft ;) Recently, I was looking for fresh ideas for care packages to send overseas, when I found several recipes for “Cake In A Jar". This recipe is the perfect gift for teachers, friends and even college students away from home. It's such an adorable way to send a homemade dessert for the holidays or just to say 'i care'.   The best part is, you can easily send them across the United States or even across the globe to your favorite soldier.

You need wide mouth mason jars with lids (or your desired container). I used quart sized mason jars for my cake. (These can be found at Wal-Mart, etc.) But I found mine at Target. I ended up buying a crate of 12 for $9 as I plan to use my jars for other decorating crafts. 

 You can use either your favorite homemade cake mix or the easiest way-use a regular box of cake mix. I found that 1 (15oz) cake mix box is sufficient for 2 quart sized jars, so buy mixes accordingly. 

 BAKING DIRECTIONS:

-For my cake jars, I used a yellow cake mix.

-Sanitize your jars and lids by either boiling in hot water or if your dishwasher has a sanitizing option.

-Preheat the oven to the desired temperature that is designated for “glass pan”.

-Then simply follow the directions on the box as you normally would! But don't forget to grease the jar. 

-Fill the jar the desired amount, but no more than halfway.

-Place your jars on a cookie sheet and set in the oven.

-For bake time subtract 15 minutes for the 12-Cup Fluted Tube (Bundt) baking time.

Example, the bundt baking time for the yellow was 38-43 so I set the timer for 23 minutes. 

-Immediately cap your jars once you’re sure the cake is done (insert toothpick in center until it comes out clean). If you’re wanting to add a cute fabric square under the lid, this is when you’ll have to do it…so move fast. And I’d recommend having two thick hand towels- one to hold the jar with and one to screw the top on with. Be careful, both jar and lid are extremely hot. 

-The lid will seal as it cools—you should hear the “ping” sound! As cake cools it will pull away from the jar slightly, but that’s okay it just means it will slide out easier.

-After the jars have cooled, you can decorate the cakes with icing and sprinkles etc. 

-But if you’re taking the jars to the Post Office, just send the icing in its own container. Don’t forget the silverware and a bit of bubble-wrap to protect the cakes during shipping. 

  -One soldier who recently received a "Cake in the Jar" couldn't figure out how his wife squeezed a dessert into the mason jar. All she said was 'it's magic' ;)

Looking to impress someone with your crafty baking skills- give this recipe a try!