Applesauce Cupcakes (Gift Mix in a Jar)

Creating the Gift in a Jar:

Wash and thoroughly dry a 1-quart wide-mouth canning jar.

Layer the ingredients in the jar as listed above starting with the sugar, flour, salt, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and then pecans - make sure to press firmly with a flat bottomed object after each addition; make the layers as level as possible.

Secure the lid and decorate as desired; attach the instructions for making these cookies found below.

APPLESAUCE CUPCAKES GIFT TAG:

Additional ingredients to be added by the recipient: 1 1/2 cups applesauce, 2 tsp baking soda, 3/4 cup melted butter, 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

APPLESAUCE CUPCAKES INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350.

Microwave the applesauce for 45 seconds and immediately stir in the baking soda; set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the butter, eggs and vanilla extract.

Add the contents of the jar, and stir until well mixed.

Spoon the batter into papered muffin tins, filling each liner half full.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool for 5 minutes in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.