Simple Bento Cake: The Cutest Mini Cake You’ll Ever Make!

Key Info

Prep time: 15-20 minutes

Cook time: 8-15 minutes

Total time: 45-60 minutes

Servings: 1-2

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary: Vegetarian

Equipment Needed

• 4-inch round baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring tools
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

• 170g self-raising flour
• 170g butter, room temperature
• 170g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk

Bento Cake Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line your 4-inch pan with parchment paper.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).



4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
5. Gently fold in vanilla extract.
6. Sift flour and fold into mixture carefully. Do not overmix!
7. Add milk to achieve a soft dropping consistency.
8. Pour batter into prepared pan.
9. Bake for 8-15 minutes until golden and a skewer comes out clean.
10. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Buttercream Frosting

1. Beat butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar.
3. Mix in vanilla and milk for smooth consistency.

Crucial Tips

• Room temperature ingredients guarantee a fluffier cake
• Don’t open oven during first 8 minutes of baking
• Let cake cool completely before frosting

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing batter
• Overbaking
• Frosting warm cake

Storage

• Refrigerate in airtight container
• Consume within 3 days
• Bring to room temperature before serving

Variations

• Chocolate version: Replace 2 tbsp flour with cocoa powder
• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and egg substitute
• Add fruit preserves between layers

Pro Decorator Tips

• Use offset spatula for smooth frosting
• Chill cake between frosting layers
• Minimal piping creates elegant look

Scaling

• For 6-inch cake, double all ingredients
• Can be easily halved for single serving

Allergen Warning

Contains: Gluten, Dairy, Eggs

Final Thoughts

This adorable bento cake is perfect for personal celebrations, gift-giving, or just because you deserve a cute little treat! The magic is in its simplicity and charm.