Looking for a cozy dessert to warm up your home with a touch of sweetness? These Chocolate Applesauce Jar Cakes are the perfect treat to enjoy on a chilly evening or to share with friends and family at a gathering. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these individual cakes offer a delightful blend of rich chocolate flavor and the subtle sweetness of applesauce. Baked to perfection in cute little jars, they are not only delicious but also make for a charming presentation. Let’s get baking!
**Chocolate Applesauce Jar Cakes**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup hot water
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease six 8-ounce glass jars with cooking spray and set aside.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. **Prepare Batter:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cakes light and tender.
5. **Add Hot Water:** Slowly pour in the hot water while stirring continuously to create a smooth batter. The batter may seem thin, but it will bake into moist and delicious cakes.
6. **Fill Jars:** Divide the batter evenly among the prepared jars, filling each jar about two-thirds full. Tap the jars gently on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.
7. **Bake:** Place the filled jars on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
8. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the jars from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These jar cakes can be enjoyed warm as is or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
9. **Store or Gift:** Once completely cooled, you can store any leftover cakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These individual cakes also make lovely gifts – simply close the jars with lids, tie a ribbon around them, and share them with loved ones.
Indulge in the decadent richness of these Chocolate Applesauce Jar Cakes for a delightful dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Serve them at your next gathering or enjoy them as a special treat for yourself. The combination of chocolate and applesauce is a classic pairing that never fails to satisfy your sweet cravings. So, why not bake up a batch of these delightful jar cakes and add a touch of warmth to your cozy home?
