Red Velvet Bento Cake
This charming red velvet bento cake, with its rich color and creamy frosting, is perfect for romantic occasions like anniversaries and date nights.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- Pinch salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup buttermilk (or milk with ½ tsp vinegar)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp red food coloring
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 4-inch round baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Mixing
- Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth.
- Alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk until the batter is smooth and even in color.
Baking
- Pour into the pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely on a rack before frosting.
Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla and mix until fluffy.
Assembly
- Slice the cake into two layers, spreading frosting between them and around the sides for a smooth finish.
- Tint a portion of frosting red to match the cake, then pipe small white hearts and write 'Happy Anniversary' neatly on top for a beautiful, romantic look.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bake the cake one day ahead and frost the next day for easier decorating. Use buttercream instead of cream cheese for a lighter, sweeter finish. Present in a small paper box lined with tissue for a true bento-style gift.