An adorable and delicious Japanese-style Bento cake.
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1 1/2cupsall-purpose flour
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- 2tspbaking powder
- 1/2tspsalt
- 1/2cupunsalted butter, softened
- 2piecelarge eggs
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1/2cupwhole milk
For the buttercream
- 1/2cupunsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2cupspowdered sugar
- 1/2tspvanilla extract
For the filling
- 1/2cupstrawberry or raspberry jam
- 1cupfresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, blueberries)
How to make Bento Cake
Cake
Preheat oven to 320°F (160°C).
Grease and flour three 4-inch (10cm) round cake pans.
Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Beat butter and eggs together; add vanilla extract.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture.
Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Buttercream
Beat butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth.
Add vanilla extract.
Assembly
Level cakes using a cake leveler or knife.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread a thin layer of buttercream.
Add a layer of jam.
Top with fresh fruit.
Repeat steps 3-5 for the remaining two cake layers.
Frost the outside with buttercream.
Decorations
Decorate with fresh flowers (e.g., cherry blossoms), fresh fruit, and edible decorations (e.g., sprinkles, candies).
Tips & Tricks
Use a scale to ensure accurate measurements.
Don't overmix the batter.
Adjust the amount of jam and buttercream to your taste.
Experiment with different flavors (e.g., matcha, green tea).
FAQS
What is the best way to store leftover Bento Cake?
To store leftover Bento Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make substitutions for the ingredients in the Bento Cake recipe?
Yes, you can make several substitutions in the Bento Cake recipe. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. You can also replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you're looking for a gluten-free option. For the jam, feel free to use any fruit preserves you prefer, such as apricot or peach.
What are some good pairing suggestions for serving Bento Cake?
Bento Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of green tea or matcha for a traditional Japanese experience. You can also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Fresh fruit on the side, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries, complements the flavors beautifully.
How do I ensure my Bento Cake layers bake evenly?
To ensure your Bento Cake layers bake evenly, make sure to preheat your oven to the correct temperature of 320°F (160°C) and use an oven thermometer to check accuracy. Greasing and flouring the cake pans properly also helps prevent sticking. Additionally, dividing the batter evenly among the pans will help them bake at the same rate.
Is this Bento Cake recipe suitable for special dietary needs?
This Bento Cake recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based butter and milk. For gluten-free diets, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
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North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia