Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature to ensure even baking. While the oven is heating, grease a cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it creates air pockets that result in a soft and tender cake.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for extra flavor. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with milk, until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, as a dry cake won't taste as good.

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from breaking when removed from the pan.

After the cake has completely cooled, use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles of cake. These will be the perfect size for your lunchbox cake. If you want to make a layered cake, cut each round in half to create thinner layers.

While your cake rounds are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue mixing until smooth. To achieve the right consistency, add a splash of heavy cream or milk. You can also mix in food coloring to create a colorful and fun design.

Place one cake round on a flat surface and spread a layer of frosting evenly on top. If you’re making a layered cake, add another cake round on top and repeat the process. Once stacked, apply a thin crumb coat to seal in any loose crumbs, then refrigerate for a few minutes to set.

After chilling, apply the final layer of frosting and smooth it out using an offset spatula or a knife. If you want a clean, minimalist look, keep it simple, or add piped designs and sprinkles for extra decoration.

Carefully place your lunchbox cake inside a takeout-style box or any airtight container. If you’re not eating it right away, store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to bring out the best flavor and texture.

Now, your homemade lunchbox cake is ready to enjoy! Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat, this little cake is sure to bring joy with every bite.