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Close-up of a beautifully baked Bento Cake with a golden crust and soft texture on a rustic wooden table

Bento Cake: A Slice of Nostalgia in Every Bite

  • Author: Rafel
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 2 Bento Cakes 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Bento Cake is a charming, palm-sized dessert with a tender, soft crumb and a whisper of vanilla sweetness. Perfect for intimate celebrations, gifting, or adding a personal touch to any moment, these tiny cakes prove that the best things come in small packages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (for frosting)
  • ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1 tsp vanilla (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 4-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until combined.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. For the frosting, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  9. Frost the cooled cakes lightly and decorate with minimalistic designs or fresh berries.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Watch baking time carefully to avoid dryness. Keep decorations minimal for the signature Bento Cake look. Personalize with handwritten notes or simple toppers. Chill before serving for cleaner slices.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini cake
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 26g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: bento cake, mini cake, small cake, personal cake, celebration dessert

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Find it online: https://www.rafelfood.com/bento-cake/