Q: So I'm thinking of making one of those baked good in a jar kits for a Christmas present (like these) and was wondering how long they would keep?
Is there any good reason sugar, flour, and other dry ingredients wouldn't keep as well in a jar together as they would seperately?
Sent by Katharine
Editor: Katharine, we don't know of any reason why sugar and flour would expire more quickly in a well-sealed jar. In fact, a well-sealed jar would probably be better for their longevity than a paper bag in the pantry! So our sense of it is that these will keep as long as your most-perishable ingredient. We would generally recommend that recipients make these recipes within a year — although hopefully they will make yours much sooner than that!
Readers, what has been your experience with baked-good-in-jar kits and freshness?
Related: More DIY Gift Ideas: Best Recipes in a Jar
(Image: Food Network)
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It is possible that any leavening agent could lose it's oomph over time when mixed with the flours and sugars, but if left out or wrapped well and separate inside the jar, it should all be fine.
Since many of the 'mix in a jar' gifts contain spices, nuts and/or whole grain flours, I usually suggest that folks use them within 6 months. That way, everything is sure to be fairly fresh and there is a lot less chance of rancid nuts or flour.
I agree with the nuts and dried fruit. They won't last as long as the flour and sugar. If the jar sits on the shelf longer than 6months, I'd add a 1/2tsp-1 tsp baking powder per cup of mix to compensate for any deterioration of the mix's.
I'd start looking at it funny after 6 months, but that's just me.
This year, I made chocolate chip cookie mix in canning jars, and I then used my Tilia FoodSaver vacuum sealer with its Bell Jar attachment to suck the air out and pop the lids down securely. I expect that will help in the preservation.