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Growing up in the bustling heart of Chicago, my childhood was filled with the comforting aromas of my babcia’s kitchen. Her culinary magic was a tapestry of rich Polish traditions melded with the vibrant flavors of American classics. One of my favorite memories is the first time I tasted a red velvet cake at a family gathering. Its velvety texture and deep red hue captivated me. Years later, I decided to give this classic a modern twist by creating a red velvet jar cake. This portable, adorable dessert is perfect for picnics, parties, or just a cozy night in with my husband and our two kids, Ella and Peter.

This red velvet jar cake is special to me because it combines the nostalgia of my childhood with the practicality of modern-day living. It’s a delightful treat that brings a smile to my face every time I make it. The rich, tangy cream cheese frosting layered between moist red velvet cake is a match made in dessert heaven. Plus, serving it in jars adds a fun, whimsical touch that kids and adults alike adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red velvet jar cake is a must-try for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, with straightforward steps that even novice bakers can follow. The individual servings in jars make it a perfect choice for portion control, and they’re so convenient for serving at gatherings. The cake itself is wonderfully moist and has a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, thanks to the cream cheese frosting. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive, this is it!

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix well.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting it into rounds that fit your jars.
For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
Layer the cake and frosting in jars, starting with a piece of cake, followed by a layer of frosting. Repeat until the jars are filled.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with flavor and nutrition
Perfect for any occasion
Customizable to your taste preferences
Budget-friendly ingredients

Expert Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect red velvet jar cake, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter. When adding the red food coloring, start with a little and increase as needed to get your desired shade. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender. Lastly, when layering the cake in jars, use a piping bag for the frosting to achieve a neat, professional look.

Amazon Affiliate Cooking Tools

When I make this red velvet jar cake, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set, which is perfect for mixing the batter and frosting without scratching my bowls. For cutting the cake rounds, the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is a lifesaver, offering precision and ease. And of course, a 4.2 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven is perfect for any other baking adventures you might embark on!

Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding a layer of fresh berries between the cake and frosting for a fruity twist. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting. You can also experiment with different food colorings to create unique hues for special occasions.

Serving Suggestions

These red velvet jar cakes are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat. They’re also a hit at parties, where guests can enjoy their own individual servings without the need for plates and forks.

FAQs

Can I make these jar cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! These red velvet jar cakes can be made a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and they’ll be ready to serve when you are.

What if I don’t have jars?

No worries! You can use any small, clear containers or even serve the cake and frosting in layers on a plate.

How long do these jar cakes last?

Stored in the refrigerator, these jar cakes will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re tightly sealed to maintain their moisture.

Final Thoughts

Creating these red velvet jar cakes has become a beloved tradition in our home. They bring a touch of whimsy and joy to any occasion, reminding me of the delightful fusion of flavors and memories from my childhood. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them with your loved ones as much as I do. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little love into each jar!

👉 I hope you loved making these red velvet jar cakes—they’re like a little jar of happiness! If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, check out my recipes for Classic Polish Apple Cake, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, and Lemon Blueberry Muffins. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!

Red Velvet Jar Cake