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Teacakes

“A GIFT FROM THE HANDS IS A GIFT FROM THE HEART”.

In the many classes I do this season, along with my syndicated newspaper column, this is my philosophy.

Gathering in the kitchen with family and friends is more than just about food preparation.

Camaraderie and memories last long after the gift has been eaten. It’s about tradition, too. When you are in the warm and inviting environment of a home kitchen, it’s a natural place to relax and be thankful to the Lord for the many blessings He’s bestowed on each of this, particularly true this year.

Today I’m doing easy do-ahead gifts which are great keepers.

VICTORIAN CARROT TEACAKE IN A JAR

This is a lightly spiced teacake. If desired, you can add more cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.
Preheat oven to 325.

You’ll need: 7 wide mouth pint canning jars with lids and seals
Run jars and seals in dishwasher, or sterilize jars and seals by placing in boiling water for 15 minutes. Drain and let dry. Rings do not have to be sterilized. Grease with Crisco and set aside. (Note do not spray jars with cooking spray – it’s too slippery for the cake to climb up the sides of the jars when baking.)

2/3 cup shortening
2-2/3 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups shredded carrots
2/3 cup water
3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 to 1 cup chopped nuts
½ teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
Dash or two of nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla

Cream together shortening and sugar. Beat in eggs, carrots and water. Stir together flour, nuts, baking powder, soda, salt and spices. Add to fruit mixture and blend. Blend in vanilla.

Pour into prepared canning jars, filling each jar half full. (This will be 1 cup in each jar). Even out batter with a spoon. Tap jars lightly on counter. Wipe rims. Place jars on cookie sheet. Bake for 40-50 minutes.

Remove one jar at a time from oven, and wipe clean sealing edge. Place seal on top and screw ring over seal tightly. Makes 7 jars. Store at room temperature up to 3 months.

Other Good Add Ins: Use half carrots and half applesauce.

 

©2007 Rita Heikenfeld and AboutEating.com