Instructions: Yes, you can can cakes. And its easy and quick too. You should start by doing just one so you can see how far it will rise (start with filling the jar about 1/2 full). You dont want the cake to come above the tope of the jar, only to about 1/4 or 1/2 inch from the lip. When you find a recipe that works, be sure to note how far you filled the jars. Once you have this established, you can do more than one at a time. The cakes will be very moist since they will be sealed. They should be able to be stored about 6 months - IF they last that long!!! Check the seal at least once a week (instruct your gift recipients of this) by pressing on the lid. If it moves up and down, the seal is broken. If you have checked them, it should be safe to eat, otherwise, toss the cake out.

Most recipes will end up using about 8 jars, so this might help you with how full to fill them. Sterilize as many jars as you think you will need. You will want to use jellie jars or wide mouth jars (pint size) so the cake will slide out (and it will too). It is absolutely necessary to use new lids (flats). The rings dont have to be though.

You will want to use quick-bread type of recipes - like brownies, gingerbread, and fruit cakes (applesauce, pumpkin). The light fluffy cakes tend to fall after the jar is sealed. Baking times will vary. This is something you will have to work with. Start with around 25-30 minutes.

Place jars on a cookie sheet in the center of the oven & bake until cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Have your sterilized lids ready (keep them hot). Take one jar at a time from the oven, place a lidEring on top and screw down tightly.

Note: be very careful doing this as the jars will be hot. Be sure to use hot pads. And work fast. The process of screwing down the rings will be a point where you could easily burn yourself. Do this fast because the lids get HOT-use heavy-duty mitts! Allow to cool on countertop. Youll know when theyve sealed, youll hear a plinking sound. If youre still not sure, test them by allowing the jars to cool, then push down on the lid, it shouldnt move at all.

Now decorate the jars how ever you choose. You can ask for the jars back as they are expensive. You can include instructions. The cake will slide out easily and it can be sliced into rounds and eaten with some whipped topping or just plain. Or maybe a glaze drizzed over it. Let them know they can do as they wish.

Note: Jars should be able to be purchased in any grocery store. The jars can be reused, but check for any damage especially in the lip of the jar.

Barb Says: This is an excellent gift idea! I recieved a brownie mix from a dear friend two CHRISTmass ago and plan on giving these out every CHRISTmas!

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.