Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun sets and shadows dance, there’s magic in the air—especially when it comes to crafting the perfect Halloween dessert! Enter my Spooktacular Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars, an enchanting twist on the classic cake that is guaranteed to mesmerize your guests. With layers of rich, chocolatey goodness nestled alongside vibrant green buttercream, these delightful jars are not only a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes. They’re easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for busy home chefs looking to impress during the spooky season. Plus, they offer a fun opportunity to get creative with whimsical fondant witch legs that add a dash of Halloween spirit. So, are you ready to conjure up some sweet magic in the kitchen? Let’s get brewing! Why Make Witches’ Brew Cake Jars? Magical Presentation: Each jar is a miniature masterpiece, featuring whimsical fondant witch legs that are sure to captivate both kids and adults alike. Layers of Delight: With layers of rich chocolate cake and fluffy green buttercream, every spoonful brings a delightful mix of flavors. Easy to Assemble: This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers to tackle, making it a perfect project for family fun. Festive Versatility: Adjust the colors and toppings to suit any celebration—think orange buttercream for Thanksgiving or pastel shades for spring parties! Perfect for Sharing: These charming jars are not only visually stunning but also portioned perfectly, making them great for gatherings and potlucks. Elevate your dessert game with these enchanting Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars! If you love creative desserts, you’ll also want to check out our Mini Cheesecakes New for another delightful treat! Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars Ingredients For the Cake Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and moisture. Consider substituting with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Butter – Richness and structure. Unsalted butter can be used in place if preferred. Eggs – Provide structure and leavening. Use egg substitutes if necessary for dietary needs. Self-Raising Flour – Structure for the cake. All-purpose flour plus baking powder can be substituted. Black Cocoa Powder – Deep chocolate flavor. Regular cocoa powder works as a substitute, though it will alter the color and flavor slightly. Baking Powder – Leavening agent for cake rise. Ensure it’s fresh for best results. Salt – Enhances flavors. Kosher salt can be used, but adjust quantity if using table salt. Milk – Moisture and balance. Non-dairy milk can work as a substitute. Vanilla Extract – Flavoring agent. Can use vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor. For the Buttercream Powdered Sugar – Sweetness for buttercream. Alternative sweeteners can be used for frosting, though texture may vary. Electric Green Food Coloring – Color for buttercream. Natural food coloring can be used as a healthier option if desired. For the Fondant Decorations Orange Fondant – For witch legs. Marshmallow fondant can be made as a substitute. Black Fondant – Used for the shoes of the witch legs. Use dark modeling chocolate if preferred. CMC Powder – Helps fondant harden. Only use if fondant needs extra stability in humid conditions. Sprinkles – Decorative element. Choose Halloween-themed sprinkles for added festive flair. Gather your ingredients and let the creation of these delightful Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars begin! They’re sure to be a hit at your next spooky gathering. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars Step 1: Prep Cake Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and prepare a 9-inch square cake tin by greasing and flouring it. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking. You’ll want your tin ready so that once the batter is ready, you can pour it in without delay. Step 2: Make Cake Batter In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift together the self-raising flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then alternate adding this dry mix with the milk, folding in the vanilla extract at the end. Step 3: Bake Cake Pour the rich chocolate cake batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the tin on a wire rack before proceeding to the next step. Step 4: Prepare Buttercream While your cake cools, whip the softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, mixing with a spatula at first and then using a mixer to incorporate air for lightness. Blend in the vanilla extract and electric green food coloring until your buttercream is vibrant and easy to pipe. Step 5: Cut Cake Layers Once the cake is completely cooled, carefully level the top with a serrated knife for even layers, then use a round cutter to cut out 9 circles from the cake. This makes the layering process for the Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars neat and visually appealing, allowing for perfectly sized cake pieces. Step 6: Assemble Cake Jars Start by adding a layer of Halloween-themed sprinkles at the bottom of each jar. Place the first cake circle on top, followed by a generous layer of green buttercream. Repeat this layering process until the jars are filled, finishing with a swirl of buttercream and a sprinkle of festive toppings atop each jar. Step 7: Create Fondant Legs Roll out orange fondant and shape it into whimsical witch legs, using black fondant for the shoes. Add small details using a fondant tool if desired. Make sure to mix in CMC powder if your fondant needs extra stability. Once your legs are shaped and set, they will make charming decorations for your cake jars. Step 8: Display Finally, insert each fondant witch leg into the assembled Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars. These jars are now ready to be showcased at your Halloween gathering, combining the deliciousness of chocolate cake with visually captivating decorations that will thrill all your guests! Make Ahead Options These Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chocolate cake and buttercream up to 24 hours in advance. Bake the cake, cool it completely, and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature to maintain moisture. The buttercream can be made and kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator; just give it a quick whip to restore its texture before using. When ready to assemble, simply cut the cake, layer it in jars with buttercream and sprinkles, finish off with the fondant witch legs, and you’ll have a delightful Halloween treat ready to wow your guests with minimal last-minute effort! What to Serve with Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars? As you prepare these enchanting cake jars, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance the festive spirit. Crispy Candy Apples: The crunch of tart apples dipped in sweet caramel is a perfect contrast to the rich cake, adding a fun Halloween touch. Halloween Punch: A refreshing, fruity punch with spooky garnishes can keep your guests hydrated while embracing the fun theme of the night. Combine fruit juices and soda for additions. Ghostly Meringues: Light and airy, these meringue cookies not only serve as a delicious treat but also add an adorable ghostly element to your dessert table. Spiced Pumpkin Cookies: The warm spices in these soft cookies will balance the sweetness of the cake jars and evoke seasonal flavors, making a comforting treat. Ghoulish Gummy Worms: For a playful touch, sprinkle gummy worms around your cake jars. They add a whimsical visual that resonates perfectly with Halloween festivities. Witch’s Brew Hot Cocoa: End the night with warm, creamy hot cocoa decorated with whipped cream and Halloween sprinkles for a cozy finish to your spooky gathering. Embrace these spooky pairings and create a memorable Halloween feast that goes beyond just the Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars! Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars Variations Invite your inner witch to add a personal twist to these delightful cake jars—the possibilities are magical! Flavor Swap: Substitute the chocolate cake with vanilla or pumpkin spice cake for seasonal variations that delight the senses sweetly. Buttercream Colors: Use different shades of buttercream based on the occasion; think vibrant orange for Thanksgiving! Each color brings its own festive flair. Festive Sprinkles: Swap the Halloween sprinkles for seasonal-themed ones like snowflakes for winter or hearts for Valentine’s Day; it’s an easy way to keep the fun alive year-round! Vegan Option: Try using applesauce instead of eggs and a plant-based milk for a completely vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy. Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on texture. Everyone deserves this treat! Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts into the cake layers for added texture. The nutty flavor complements the chocolate beautifully and adds a delightful crunch. Extra Spice: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg in the cake batter for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate. Spruced-Up Toppings: Consider adding whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top of the buttercream for added decadence. Don’t be afraid to layer up the indulgence! As you experiment with these twists, you’re sure to create a cake jar that will charm everyone at your next gathering. If you’re looking for more sweet inspiration, check out our delightful Moist Strawberry Shortcake for another irresistible dessert! Tips for the Best Witches’ Brew Cake Jars Cool Completely: Make sure your cake cools entirely before cutting and layering. This ensures clean, even layers without crumbling. Fondant Fun: Keep fondant in a cool, dry space while working to prevent stickiness. Dust your work surface with cornstarch if needed. Buttercream Consistency: Adjust your buttercream’s thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar. The right consistency makes for easy piping and layering. Layering Strategy: Start with sprinkles at the bottom of the jars to create a colorful base. This adds visual interest and texture in every bite of your Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars. Storage Tips: For the best flavors, store your cake jars in airtight containers at room temperature and enjoy within 2-3 days for peak freshness. How to Store and Freeze Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars Room Temperature: Keep the cake jars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful moisture and taste. Fridge: If you want to extend their life, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent any drying out. Freezer: For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cake jars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor profile. Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, opt for fresh eggs and unsalted butter at room temperature for best results. For sugars, look for granulated sugar without clumps. If you’re using any cocoa powder, ensure it’s fresh for a rich flavor. The better the quality of your ingredients, the more magical your cake jars will be! How should I store Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars after making them? Very good question! Store your cake jars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them moist and delicious. If you need to extend their freshness, they can last in the refrigerator for about a week—just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out. Can I freeze the Witches’ Brew Halloween Cake Jars? Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each assembled cake jar tightly with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the jars in the fridge overnight and allow them to come to room temperature before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. What should I do if my buttercream is too stiff or too runny? Don’t worry—this happens to the best of us! If your buttercream is too stiff, gradually add a tablespoon of milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too runny, slowly add sifted powdered sugar until thickened. It’s all about finding that happy medium for perfect piping and spreading! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Great point to mention! If you have dietary restrictions, you can use egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or applesauce for the eggs. For vegan or dairy-free options, simply use non-dairy milk and vegan butter in place of traditional ingredients. Always check your fondant for any allergens if serving to guests who are sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients. Spooky Witches' Brew Halloween Cake Jars These Witches' Brew Halloween Cake Jars are an enchanting twist on classic dessert, featuring rich chocolate cake and vibrant green buttercream. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 9 jarsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 cup Granulated Sugar Consider substituting with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.1/2 cup Butter Unsalted butter can be used in place if preferred.3 large Eggs Use egg substitutes if necessary for dietary needs.1 cup Self-Raising Flour All-purpose flour plus baking powder can be substituted.1/2 cup Black Cocoa Powder Regular cocoa powder works as a substitute, though it will alter the color and flavor slightly.1 tsp Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for best results.1/4 tsp Salt Kosher salt can be used, but adjust quantity if using table salt.1 cup Milk Non-dairy milk can work as a substitute.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Can use vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor.For the Buttercream4 cups Powdered Sugar Alternative sweeteners can be used for frosting, though texture may vary.1 tbsp Electric Green Food Coloring Natural food coloring can be used as a healthier option if desired.For the Fondant Decorations4 oz Orange Fondant Marshmallow fondant can be made as a substitute.2 oz Black Fondant Use dark modeling chocolate if preferred.1 tsp CMC Powder Only use if fondant needs extra stability in humid conditions.1 cup Sprinkles Choose Halloween-themed sprinkles for added festive flair. Equipment Mixing bowl9-inch square cake tinSerrated knifespatulaMixerRound cutterFondant tools Method Bake CakePreheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and prepare a 9-inch square cake tin by greasing and flouring it.In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift together self-raising flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then alternate adding this dry mix with the milk, folding in the vanilla extract at the end.Pour the batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin on a wire rack.Prepare ButtercreamWhile the cake cools, whip the softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, mixing with a spatula first, then using a mixer to incorporate air for lightness.Blend in vanilla extract and electric green food coloring until vibrant and easy to pipe.Assemble Cake JarsLevel the top of the cooled cake with a serrated knife and cut out 9 circles.Begin layering by adding Halloween-themed sprinkles at the bottom of each jar, followed by a cake circle, then a layer of green buttercream. Repeat until jars are filled, finishing with buttercream swirl and festive toppings.Roll out orange fondant and shape into whimsical witch legs, using black fondant for the shoes and adding details as desired.Insert each fondant witch leg into the assembled jars for a charming decoration. Nutrition Serving: 1jarCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesMake sure the cake cools completely before cutting and layering to ensure clean layers. Store in airtight containers for the best freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
