Description
This Family-Favorite Bento Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines a charming presentation with delicious flavors. Perfect for occasions or just because, these mini cakes are easy to make and customize, ensuring that everyone will love them!
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Sponge Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- For Decoration:
- Sprinkles, edible flowers, or other decorations of your choice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 6-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- If desired, divide the frosting into separate bowls and add food coloring to create different shades.
- Level the top of the cooled sponge cake with a serrated knife.
- Cut the cake in half horizontally to create two layers.
- Place one layer on a plate or turntable and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire bento cake smoothly.
- Use piping bags and tips to create decorative designs on top of the cake, or simply sprinkle with your favorite decorations.
- Carefully transfer the decorated bento cake into a bento box or small takeaway container.
- Add any additional decorations or personalized notes to the box.
- Close the lid securely and your Family-Favorite Bento Cake is ready to be gifted or enjoyed!
Notes
- Even Baking: Use cake strips around your cake pan to ensure even baking and prevent a domed top.
- Smooth Frosting: Use a turntable and offset spatula to achieve a smooth frosting finish.
- Creative Decorations: Experiment with different piping techniques, colors, and decorations to make your bento cake unique.
- Flavor Variations: Try different extracts or add-ins to the cake batter and frosting for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: bento cake, family favorite cake, cute cake recipe, Japanese bento cake, mini cake recipe