Bento Cake
Learn how to make a bento cake with this easy tutorial! Discover the best way to assemble lunchbox cakes and create the perfect bento cake at home.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure and a tender crumb.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Ensures the cake rises evenly.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with acidic ingredients for extra fluffiness.
- Pinch of salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- ½ cup milk room temperature – Keeps the cake moist and soft.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted – Adds richness and smoothness.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Gives a warm fragrant flavor.
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature – Creates a creamy base for smooth piping.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm aromatic flavor to the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream – Helps achieve the perfect consistency for spreading and piping.
Optional Additions for Decoration:
- Food gel colors – Customize your frosting to match any theme.
- Sprinkles or edible pearls – Add texture and fun details.
- Piping tips and bags – Essential for creating elegant designs.
- Parchment paper – Helps with even baking and easy cleanup.
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 4-inch cake tin with parchment paper.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt by sifting them into a mixing bowl. This keeps the cake light and airy.
- In another bowl, whisk the sugar, melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until smooth. Do not overmix to keep the cake soft.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Buttercream Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, mixing until the texture becomes smooth.
- Pour in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- If using food gel, add a few drops and mix until you achieve the desired color.
Assemble the Bento Cake
- Slice the cake into two even layers using a serrated knife.
- Spread a thin layer of buttercream between the layers, then stack them carefully.
- Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) around the cake to lock in any loose crumbs.
- Chill the cake for 10-15 minutes to set the frosting before adding the final coat.
Decorate Your Bento Cake
- Using a piping bag with your favorite tip, add buttercream designs to the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle with edible decorations or add a personalized message for a special touch.
- Place the finished cake into a lunchbox for easy storage and transport.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g