Bento Cakes
These adorable mini bento cakes are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, bringing joy with every slice!
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free) Use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar) Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter) For a vegan option, use plant-based butter.
- 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup applesauce) Substitute with applesauce for a vegan alternative.
- 1/3 cup milk (almond or oat milk) Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter For the frosting, softened.
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp heavy cream Can substitute with a non-dairy option.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 4-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add egg and vanilla, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 22–25 minutes. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, level the top and slice it horizontally into 2–3 layers.
Frosting and Decorating
- Beat the remaining butter until creamy. Mix in powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla for the frosting.
- Set aside 1/3 for the outer layer; color the rest as desired.
- Spread frosting between layers and apply a crumb coat, then chill for 15 minutes.
- Apply the final frosting layer and decorate with piping bags, edible markers, or sprinkles.
Notes
Keep cakes fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze them for up to a month. Use room temperature ingredients for the best batter consistency. Don’t forget to apply a crumb coat!