What is a bento cake?

A bento cake is a small, single-serving cake typically packaged in a takeout box. It is inspired by the Japanese bento lunchbox concept and is designed for personal enjoyment or small celebrations. These cakes are popular for their minimalist decorations, compact size, and Instagram-worthy appearance.

What’s the difference between a bento cake and a normal cake?

The main difference is the size and portioning. Bento cakes are usually 4 to 6 inches in diameter, serving 1 to 3 people, while regular cakes are larger, serving 6 or more. Bento cakes also tend to have simple, aesthetic designs, whereas normal cakes often have more elaborate decorations and multiple tiers.

What’s the size of a bento cake?

Bento cakes typically range from 4 to 6 inches in diameter. A 4-inch cake is ideal for one person, while a 6-inch cake can serve up to three people. Despite their small size, they often have multiple layers, making them just as filling as a regular slice of cake.

Why is bento cake expensive?

Bento cakes are expensive because they require individual craftsmanship. Each cake is handmade, customized, and decorated with high-quality ingredients. Additionally, the cost of premium packaging, personalized messages, and small-batch baking increases the overall price.

Bento Cake: The Cutest Mini Cake Trend You Must Try!

Description

Bento cakes, also known as lunchbox cakes, are adorable, single-serving cakes that are perfect for gifting or personal indulgence. These mini cakes are trendy, customizable, and ideal for celebrations. Made with soft sponge layers and frosted with light buttercream, they are packed in small takeout boxes, making them cute and convenient!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg

For the Buttercream Frosting:

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Make the Cake:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a small cake pan (6-inch round or square).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar, milk, oil, vanilla, and egg until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing into small rounds (about 3-4 inches in diameter).

Make the Buttercream Frosting:

Beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and 1 tbsp of milk or cream, beating until smooth. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency.
If using food coloring, divide the frosting and mix in colors as desired.

Assemble the Bento Cake:

Place a cake round on a flat surface and spread a thin layer of frosting.
Stack another cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
Smooth the buttercream using an offset spatula or piping bag for a clean finish.
Decorate with sprinkles, piped designs, or edible decorations.
Place the mini cake in a small takeout box lined with parchment paper.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: Korean-inspired