Christmas cake is a holiday classic that brings warmth and festive cheer to any celebration. We’ve taken this beloved dessert and transformed it into a convenient, charming treat with our Christmas Cake In A Jar recipe. It’s perfect for gifting or enjoying a personal portion without the fuss of slicing a whole cake.
This recipe captures all the rich flavors of traditional Christmas cake—spiced fruits, nuts, and a hint of brandy—layered beautifully in a jar. It’s easy to prepare ahead and makes holiday entertaining a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift idea or a cozy dessert to share, our Christmas Cake In A Jar is sure to impress and delight.
Ingredients
To create our festive Christmas Cake In A Jar, we carefully select each ingredient to capture the rich, spiced flavors and perfect texture that make this dessert exceptional. Below are the ingredients divided into cake essentials and filling plus topping components for ease of preparation.
Cake Ingredients
We start with a classic spiced cake base infused with dried fruits and brandy to bring that traditional holiday warmth.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, and cherries)
- 2 tablespoons brandy or orange juice
Filling and Topping Ingredients
The layers of luscious filling and decorative topping bring festive flair and add moisture to our Christmas Cake In A Jar.
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons brandy-soaked dried fruit pieces (reserved from cake mix)
- Optional: edible gold dust or festive sprinkles for garnish
| Category | Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake | All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Sifted |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | Packed | |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon | – | |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | – | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred | |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ teaspoon | – | |
| Ground cloves | ¼ teaspoon | – | |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | – | |
| Unsalted butter | ⅓ cup | Softened | |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature | |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup | Can substitute with milk + lemon juice | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure extract recommended | |
| Mixed dried fruits | 1 cup | Raisins, currants, dates, cherries | |
| Brandy or orange juice | 2 tablespoons | For soaking fruits | |
| Filling and Topping | Cream cheese | ½ cup | Softened |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup | Softened | |
| Powdered sugar | ½ cup | Sifted | |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | – | |
| Chopped pecans or walnuts | ¼ cup | Toasted | |
| Brandy-soaked dried fruits | 2 tablespoons | Reserved from cake mix | |
| Edible gold dust or sprinkles | As desired | For festive garnish |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Christmas Cake In A Jar recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment at hand is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the perfect texture and presentation for this festive dessert.
- Mixing Bowls
Use medium and large mixing bowls to combine the wet and dry ingredients separately. This enables us to mix evenly without spilling.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk
An electric mixer speeds up creaming butter and sugar and ensures smooth batter consistency. A hand whisk can also work with more effort.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are vital for baking success. We recommend using a dedicated set of measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients.
- Sieve
Sifting the flour, baking powder, and spices helps us avoid lumps and creates a light, airy cake batter.
- Spatula
A flexible spatula is perfect to fold in dried fruits and nuts gently without crushing them or overmixing.
- Saucepan
For warming brandy or melting butter gently, a small saucepan is handy.
- Jars for Baking and Serving
We use 8-ounce wide-mouth glass jars with lids. These jars are heatproof and provide an attractive way to present the cake. Ensure jars are clean and dry before filling.
- Cooling Rack
Allow the jars to cool evenly after baking by placing them on a wire rack. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
- Piping Bag (Optional)
For a neat cream cheese frosting layer or decorative topping, a piping bag adds finesse.
- Knife or Spoon
Use to layer cake and filling smoothly inside jars.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine wet and dry ingredients separately | Use at least two sizes |
| Electric Mixer/Whisk | Cream butter/sugar and blend batter | Mixer preferred for ease |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients precisely | Separate sets for dry/liquid |
| Sieve | Sift flour, baking powder, and spices | Ensures lump-free batter |
| Spatula | Fold in dried fruit and nuts gently | Flexible and heat-resistant |
| Saucepan | Warm brandy or melt butter | Low heat for control |
| Wide-mouth Glass Jars | Bake and serve the cake | 8-ounce jars ideal |
| Cooling Rack | Cool jars after baking | Prevents moisture buildup |
| Piping Bag (Optional) | Apply frosting or decoration | Use for clean presentation |
| Knife or Spoon | Layer cake and fillings | Smooths layering effortlessly |
By preparing these tools before starting, we ensure a smooth process and beautiful Christmas Cake In A Jar results every time.
Prep Work
To achieve the perfect Christmas Cake In A Jar, thorough prep work is essential. We’ll focus on sanitizing the jars and carefully crafting our spiced cake batter for the best results.
Preparing the Jars
Before we start baking, preparing the 8-ounce wide-mouth glass jars is crucial. This prevents contamination and ensures the cake sets properly in the jars.
- Wash each jar and lid thoroughly with hot soapy water.
- Rinse well to remove any soap residue.
- Sterilize by boiling jars and lids in water for 10 minutes.
- Dry completely on a clean cooling rack or towel.
- Grease the inside of each jar lightly with unsalted butter using a pastry brush or paper towel. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cake removal easier if desired.
| Step | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Washing jars | 5 minutes | Remove dirt and debris |
| Boiling jars | 10 minutes | Sterilization to ensure food safety |
| Drying jars | 20 minutes+ | Prepare jars for cake batter |
| Greasing jars | 2 minutes | Prevent cake from sticking |
Prepping the Cake Batter
Our cake batter balances warmth and moisture, infused with the festive flavors that define our Christmas Cake In A Jar.
- Sift together the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl:
- All-purpose flour
- Brown sugar
- Baking powder
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- In another medium bowl, cream the unsalted butter and eggs using an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add buttermilk and brandy to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients using a flexible spatula to avoid overmixing.
- Stir in the mixed dried fruits and toasted nuts gently, distributing them evenly.
“Folding the dried fruits and nuts last preserves their texture and prevents sinking during baking.”
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | Packed |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ tsp | Sifted |
| Ground spices | 2 tsp total | Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup | Softened |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup | Fresh |
| Brandy | ¼ cup | Warmed slightly |
| Mixed dried fruits | 1 cup | Chopped if large |
| Toasted nuts | ½ cup | Chopped |
Following these steps ensures our Christmas Cake In A Jar batter is smooth, well-flavored, and evenly textured—ready for layering and baking.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake, cool, and assemble our Christmas Cake In A Jar. Each phase is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and festive presentation.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Position the oven rack in the center for even heat distribution.
- Prepare the jars by greasing each 8-ounce wide-mouth glass jar lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
- Spoon the batter evenly into the jars, filling them about ⅔ full to allow room for rising.
- Place the jars on a baking sheet for stability and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes or until the tops are firm and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Rotate the pans halfway through baking to ensure uniform cooking.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheating oven | 325°F/160°C | — | Rack in middle position |
| Baking | 325°F/160°C | 40–45 min | Fill jars ⅔ full |
| Testing doneness | — | — | Toothpick should be clean |
Cooling the Cake
- Remove jars carefully from the oven using oven mitts.
- Place jars on a cooling rack to allow air circulation beneath.
- Let the cakes cool completely in the jars—this typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Avoid removing the cake from the jar to prevent crumbling and preserve the layered presentation.
Assembling the Christmas Cake in a Jar
- Prepare the filling by beating cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Once cakes have cooled, spread a generous layer of the frosting on top of each cake inside the jar.
- Sprinkle toasted nuts over the frosting, adding both texture and flavor.
- For added festivity, dust with edible gold dust or sprinkle colorful festive decorations.
- Seal jars tightly with lids to keep the cakes fresh or prepare for gifting.
“The key to the perfect Christmas Cake In A Jar is layering with care and chilling fully before sealing.“
This careful process preserves moisture, flavor, and the charming presentation of our Christmas Cake In A Jar.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of our Christmas Cake In A Jar. Understanding how to store these jars and their shelf life will help us enjoy them at their best or share them as thoughtful gifts.
Storing the Cake Jars
To preserve the rich spiced flavors and moist texture, keep the jars sealed tightly. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ideally, we should refrigerate the jars once filled with the cream cheese filling to maintain freshness.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Shelf Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 65–75°F (18–24°C) | Up to 5 days | Keep away from heat and sunlight |
| Refrigerator | 36–40°F (2–4°C) | Up to 2 weeks | Ensure jars are sealed to prevent dryness |
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) | Up to 3 months | Wrap jars in foil for extra protection |
Important: Before sealing the jars, allow cakes to cool completely to avoid condensation, which could affect texture and shelf life.
Gift Wrapping Tips
When gifting our Christmas Cake In A Jar, presentation enhances appeal and keeps the cake fresh. Here are some proven tips for beautiful and secure gift wrapping:
- Use a decorative fabric square or festive paper tied with twine or ribbon around the jar lid.
- Attach a personalized tag with a flavor description and storage instructions.
- Include a small card with “Refrigerate upon opening” advice to maintain quality.
- For winter gifting, consider placing jars in a gift box lined with tissue paper to prevent breakage.
- Add a finishing touch with seasonal greenery sprigs or mini ornaments secured to the twine.
Conclusion
Christmas Cake In A Jar brings a fresh and festive twist to holiday baking. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy rich, spiced flavors packed into a charming presentation that’s perfect for gifting or savoring yourself.
With just a few ingredients and some careful layering, we can create a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the season. Whether shared with loved ones or kept as a personal indulgence, this recipe adds warmth and joy to any celebration.
Let’s embrace the ease and charm of this festive dessert and make our holiday moments even sweeter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Christmas Cake In A Jar?
Christmas Cake In A Jar is a festive twist on traditional Christmas cake, baked directly inside jars. It features spiced fruits, nuts, and brandy layered for a rich, convenient dessert ideal for gifting or personal enjoyment.
What ingredients are needed for the cake?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, spices, unsalted butter, eggs, buttermilk, mixed dried fruits, brandy, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and toasted nuts for filling and topping.
What equipment do I need to make the cake?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a sieve, spatula, small saucepan, wide-mouth 8-ounce jars, a cooling rack, and optionally a piping bag for decoration.
How should I prepare the jars before baking?
Wash, sterilize, and dry the jars thoroughly, then grease them well to prevent sticking. Proper jar prep ensures food safety and helps your cake release easily after baking.
What is the baking temperature and time?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Fill the jars with batter and bake for 40–45 minutes. Test with a toothpick to check if the cake is done before removing.
How do I assemble the Christmas Cake In A Jar?
Once cooled, spread the cream cheese filling on top, add toasted nuts, and decorate with festive touches like edible gold dust or sprinkles. Chill fully before sealing the jars.
How should I store Christmas Cake In A Jar?
Keep jars sealed in a cool, dry place. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days, refrigerate for 2 weeks after adding the filling, or freeze for up to 3 months for longer freshness.
Can Christmas Cake In A Jar be gifted?
Yes! The jar format is perfect for gifting. Wrap with decorative fabric or paper, add personalized tags with storage tips, and include seasonal accents for a charming holiday gift.
Why use brandy in the cake?
Brandy adds warmth and depth to the flavor, enhancing the spiced fruit mixture and helping preserve the cake’s moistness and richness.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The article outlines each step in detail, uses common kitchen tools, and offers tips to ensure a smooth baking process and beautiful results.