Mason jars are a popular and versatile item. You can find them in kitchens, bakeries, restaurants, etc. They’re often used for food storage, décor, and even unique drinkware.
Are you thinking of baking in them but worried if they are safe for oven use?
Sit back and relax while I tell you if these trendy jars can withstand the heat or if they pose a risk when used for baking or cooking.
I will also share other things you can or cannot do with mason jars.
Can Mason Jars go in the Oven?
No, mason jars should not be placed in the oven.
Most mason jars used for canning are made of annealed glass, not tempered glass.
Annealed glass is less heat resistant than tempered glass and may not withstand the high temperatures of an oven.
However, some mason jars are made of tempered glass and can be used in the oven for baking or cooking purposes. Use them for baking desserts, pies, and casseroles. Always ensure the jar is oven-safe before using it for cooking or baking.
Keep in mind that placing canned goods directly in the oven is not recommended.
According to the National Centre for Home Preservation, dry heat does not enter the jar all the way, the temperature in the oven fluctuates too much, and there is no research-based safe processing time for oven canning.
Also read: Are Mason Jars Microwave Safe?
Are Mason Jars Heatproof?
Yes, mason jars are heatproof. As they are made chiefly of annealed glass (and sometimes tempered glass), mason jars are commonly used for canning food.
Annealing is a process in which glass is thermally treated and then cooled. This relieves the stresses formed during the manufacturing of the glass.
Then, the glass is heat soaked until the temperature is consistent throughout the glass surface. This temperature is mostly between 850°F-900°F.
However, remember that mason jars are not oven-safe and will crack or break inside an oven.
This is mainly due to potential uneven heating and the risk of thermal shock. Thermal shock occurs when a rapid change in temperature causes stress in the material.
If your mason jars are exposed to extreme temperature changes, such as transferring them directly from a hot oven to a cold surface, they can experience this phenomenon.
Using mason jars in the oven for cooking and baking purposes is not ideal (unless the manufacturer specifies explicitly that it can be used in the oven).
It is important to always use the proper containers for oven use, such as those specifically designed to withstand the high heat of an oven.
These alternatives will provide more consistent results and reduce the risk of accidents.
For more information, watch the video below:
Can you use Mason Jars for Oven Canning?
Mason jars are not designed for use in the oven. Even though they may not explode, their structural integrity might be compromised, making them unsuitable.
In general, it’s not recommended to use the oven canning method anyway (with or without mason jars)
Oven canning involves placing canned goods, including Mason jars, in the oven, but the temperature may not be high enough to kill bacteria and mold spores.
This could lead to the formation of botulism, a significant concern in home canning.
According to Clemson University cooperative extension,
“Canning jars are intended for use in hot water baths or pressure canners. They are not designed to withstand the thermal stresses that occur with dry oven heat”.
Another method you might have heard of is dry oven canning, where jars of prepared dry goods like grains and beans are placed in a heated oven.
The jars are usually heated to 200°F (93°C) for a minimum of 30 minutes, creating a sterile environment.
While dry oven canning might be safer than regular oven canning, it is still not the recommended method for preserving food.
To ensure your food is safely preserved, stick to tried-and-true methods like pressure canning and water baths. These methods have been proven to be effective and safe, so you can enjoy your canned goods with confidence.
Also read: Can You Put a Glass Bowl in an Air Fryer?
Can You Sterilize Mason Jars in the Oven?
No, sterilizing mason jars in the oven is not recommended.
The most important reason is due to potential inaccuracies in oven temperature readings.
Ball manufacturers (a popular mason jar manufacturer) recommend boiling water techniques for sterilizing mason jars (instead of the oven).
The University of Maine Cooperative extension service states not to use ovens for sterilization. According to them, “Sterilizing jars in the oven is not an approved method and does not adequately sterilize jars.”
However, it is still a common practice for many. In case you have oven-safe jars and have no other option to sterilize your jars, proceed with the method below:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (121°C)
- Wash your mason jars and lids thoroughly in hot, soapy water, then rinse well.
- Place clean jars upside down on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced apart.
- Bake the jars in the preheated oven for at least 20 minutes to achieve proper sterilization.
- Remove the jars from the oven using caution and oven mitts or tongs to prevent burns.
- Let the jars cool completely before using them for canning purposes.
Also read: Can Glass Lids Go in the Oven?
Different Ways to Sterilize Mason Jars
There are various methods available that ensure your jars are free from bacteria and contaminants.
Let us now discuss some of the most common techniques that involve the use of water, a water bath, or a pressure pot.
Boil them in Water
Fill a large pot with enough water to completely submerge your jars and bring it to a rolling boil.
Carefully lower the jars into the boiling water using tongs or a jar lifter and let them boil for at least 10 minutes. Remove the jars using tongs and place them on a clean surface to dry.
Water Bath Method
Another effective way to sterilize is through the water bath method.
This involves placing your jars on a rack in a water bath canner or large pot and filling it with enough water to cover the jars by 1-2 inches.
Bring the water to a rolling boil and allow the jars to process for 10-15 minutes. Remove them from the canner, letting them cool on a clean surface.
Pressure Canning
This method is an excellent option for sterilizing jars, especially if you are canning low-acid foods.
Load your jars onto a rack inside the pressure canner, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to set the appropriate pressure level and processing time.
Once the cycle is complete, allow the jars to cool before removing them from the canner.
Common Uses of Mason Jars
Mason jars are quite useful as they are reusable and easy to maintain. Here are some of the ways to use mason jars:
Canning
Mason jars are commonly used for canning, a process that involves preserving food in airtight containers.
By canning your fruits, vegetables, and other foods in mason jars, you can enjoy their flavors all year round and save money on groceries.
Canning can be essential for homesteading and prepping communities, as it helps maintain a steady food supply during shortages.
Food Storage
Mason jars are perfect for storing dry goods like grains, beans, or pasta. Their airtight seal keeps food fresh and safe from pests.
You can also label the jars to help with organization in your pantry.
Meal Prep
You can use mason jars to prepare and store individual portions of meals, like salads, overnight oats, or parfaits.
The clear glass makes it easy to see the contents, and the lid keeps everything fresh and contained.
Beverages
Mason jars can be used as drinkware for both hot and cold beverages. You can use them for serving smoothies, iced coffee, or even hot tea.
The sturdy glass construction also makes them ideal for outdoor use, like picnics or barbecues.
Alternative Containers for Storing and Baking Food
A popular choice for safe food storage and oven baking are borosilicate glass containers, which are designed to withstand high temperatures and are great alternatives to mason jars.
Oven-safe glass containers are an excellent option for both cooking and storing food. They are versatile, easy to clean, and help preserve the taste and integrity of your food.
Pyrex is another reliable option for food storage. As a well-known brand, Pyrex offers a variety of glass containers with lids.
These containers are durable, microwave-safe, and freezer-friendly, making them an ideal choice for oven use and food storage.
Safety Measures and Precautions While Placing Jars in the oven
Here are a couple of things you need to keep in mind while placing jars in the oven:
- First, ensure that you choose oven-safe jars. These glass containers are designed with heat-resistant glass and sturdy construction to withstand high temperatures without breaking.
- Before placing the jars in the oven, check for damages, especially cracks or chips. Imperfections on the jar’s surface can increase the chances of breakage due to temperature fluctuations.
- The dry heat of the oven can make regular or even tempered glass susceptible to breaking or cracking, so be vigilant about the jars’ condition.
- Another safety measure to take is avoiding an airtight seal on the jar when using it in the oven. Sealing the jar can cause a buildup of pressure, leading to potentially hazardous conditions. Besides, an airtight seal can trap the air inside, reducing the energy required for cooking or baking and affecting the food’s nutritional value.
- While cooking, it’s essential to monitor the temperature closely. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended temperature guidelines to ensure safe and efficient use. Owning an oven thermometer to keep an eye on accurate temperature levels can be beneficial in this scenario.
- Lastly, always use oven-safe tools, such as mitts or tongs, to handle hot mason jars and exercise caution when removing them from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mason Jars
Here are some frequently asked questions about mason jars:
Are Mason Jars Microwave Safe?
Yes, mason jars are microwave-safe. However, do not attach lids or rings to the jars while using them in a microwave since these metal components can cause sparks or damage your appliance.
Also, prevent thermal shock by avoiding sudden temperature changes.
If you’re using a jar that has been in the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before microwaving.
Can We Use Mason Jars on the Stovetop?
Using mason jars directly on the stovetop is not recommended due to the risk of thermal shock and breakage.
Instead, opt for proper cookware designed for stovetop cooking.
If you must use a mason jar on a stovetop, place the jar in a pot or pan filled with water and gently heat the contents using the water bath method.
Are Mason Jars Freezer-Safe?
Yes, mason jars can be safely stored in the freezer for food storage purposes. Keep a 1-inch airspace between the food and the jar lid to allow for expansion when freezing.
Also, use straight-sided jars as they are less likely to crack due to temperature changes.
To prevent breakage from thermal shock, avoid moving the jars directly from the freezer to a heating source.
Can Mason Jars Go in the Dishwasher?
Mason jars can be washed in a dishwasher including their lids and rings.
Remember to place the jars upside down on the top rack and separate the lids and rings to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Check the jars for any cracks or chips before reusing them.
Other articles you may also like:
