3-Tablespoon Jar Cake

Here is a wonderful recipe you can whip up inside a single jar without even turning on the oven! The 3-Tablespoon Jar Cake gets its name from its incredibly easy-to-remember measurements. Since it is steam-cooked in a pot, it retains a moist, rich, almost soufflé-like texture that makes it the perfect single-serving dessert.

Ingredients (Serves 4 - Measurements per Single Jar)

• 1 egg

• 3 tbsp milk

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp sugar

• 3 level tbsp flour (plus a tiny bit more if needed for consistency)

• 3 tsp cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 3 tsp chocolate chips (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. Mix in the Jar: In a heat-resistant glass jar, crack the egg and add the milk, olive oil, and sugar. Whisk together using a fork. Add the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and chocolate chips (if using). Mix until completely smooth.

   Consistency Note: The batter should be fluid but thick enough to leave slight ribbons or tracks when stirred. Since "level tablespoons" can vary slightly from kitchen to kitchen, add a tiny pinch of extra flour if your batter feels too watery.

2. Prep the Pot: Once all your ingredients are well incorporated, screw the lids tightly onto the jars. Place the jars upright inside a deep cooking pot.

3. Add the Water: Pour cold water into the pot. The water level should reach exactly halfway up the sides of the jars.

4. Steam Cook: Place the pot on the stove. Bring the water to a boil, then immediately turn the heat down to the lowest setting. Cover the pot with its lid and let the cakes steam for 20 minutes.

5. Serve: Carefully remove the hot jars from the pot. Let them cool down for a couple of minutes, open the lids, and serve warm—optionally dusted with powdered sugar!