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A hand holding a decorated 4-inch mini bento cake with a cute message on top, showcasing its small size, charm, and ideal presentation for personalized gifting.

Mini Bento Cake (4-Inch Recipe)

Discover what is bento cake — a delightful 4-inch mini dessert that combines aesthetics, flavor, and heartfelt personalization. Perfect for birthdays, gifting, or just treating yourself.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 1 small bento cake (serves 1–2) 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 100g cake flour

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • Pinch of salt

  • 2 eggs

  • 80g sugar

  • 50g melted butter

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Optional: 1 tbsp matcha, cocoa powder, or fruit purée

  • Filling: 2 tbsp jam or ganache

  • Frosting: 1/2 cup buttercream or whipped mascarpone

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).

  • In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.

  • In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.

  • Gently fold dry ingredients into egg mixture.

  • Add melted butter and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

  • Pour batter into a greased 4-inch round pan.

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

  • Let cake cool completely. Slice horizontally into two layers.

  • Fill with jam or ganache.

  • Frost with buttercream. Add decorations or piped message.

 

  • Chill 10 minutes before boxing or serving.

Notes

  • Use aquafaba instead of eggs and coconut cream for a vegan version.

  • Avoid overly wet fillings to preserve structure.

  • Stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days in a sealed container.

  • Personalize the cake with edible flowers, lettering, or sprinkles.

  • Author: James Carter
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Korean, Asian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cake (1 serving)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 95mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: what is bento cake, bento cake recipe, 4-inch cake, mini dessert, lunchbox cake