SEOUL – A new dessert craze is taking over South Korea, where cakes are shrinking down to bite-sized portions, creating a delightful treat for dessert lovers. Dubbed “one-bite cakes” or “micro cakes,” these miniature desserts have sparked a viral trend, with more than 22,000 posts on Instagram showcasing these petite creations.
Unlike cupcakes, which are often standard in size and design, these tiny cakes are meticulously crafted to resemble full-sized cakes, complete with intricate decorations. The cakes are so small that they can fit in the palm of your hand, often as small as a walnut or even a single slice of cake.
The trend has even inspired the “One Bite Challenge,” where enthusiasts attempt to devour these cakes in one go, testing their skill and appetite.
Why Are People Buying Them?
Despite their size, the demand for these micro cakes is rising, and the reasons vary.
For Ms. Choi Ju-hyun, a mother of a two-year-old, the appeal was practicality. She ordered mini cakes for a birthday party for her daughter and other toddlers born in October. “Each child could have their own tiny cake, which was especially nice since my daughter loves blowing out candles,” she explained. “Big cakes are usually for larger gatherings, but I rarely have a need for that much cake.”
For 20-something Lee Ye-na, the trend started when she received a hand-sized cake from Nudake, a brand that has gained popularity thanks to its designs inspired by K-pop star Jennie. “I was skeptical at first, thinking, ‘Who would this be enough for?’ But it turned out to be a perfect size to share with friends,” she said. Lee also mentioned Nudake’s viral Micro Burger Cake, which she believes is ideal for people living alone. “They’re small enough that there are no leftovers, and many of my friends hesitate to accept full-sized cakes because they don’t want to deal with leftovers.”
For Lee Eun-geum, a white cake the size of a dinner roll – adorned with black ribbons – was just the right fit for her husband’s birthday. “Neither of us are big cake eaters, so this was perfect for just a taste,” she shared. “It created a festive atmosphere, and I’d happily buy one again.”
Aesthetic and Practical Appeal
For many, the tiny cakes are as much about the aesthetics as the taste. “They’re Instagrammable and look adorable in photos despite their small size,” said Ms. Kim Yu-jin, 32. She also pointed out that smaller cakes can be more affordable. “Cakes have gotten really expensive these days, and people are more health-conscious and want to cut back on sugar.”
Retailers have taken notice. Shinsegae Food recently launched the Maltese Strawberry Roll Cake, a mini-sized dessert inspired by popular characters, selling for 9,980 won (about $7.50) at Emart stores. “We recognized the growing trend for small cakes,” said Ms. Won Jung-kook, an official at Emart. “With the prevalence of both expensive high-end cakes and more affordable options, we believe there is a strong demand for cost-effective mini cakes.”
The product has been a success, with sales hitting 30,000 units, including pre-orders, from November 30 to December 25, marking a 30% increase in sales compared to the same period last year.
Is It Too Expensive?
Not everyone is thrilled with the trend, particularly when it comes to the price tags. Ms. Park Jung-hyun, 28, feels that the cost of these tiny cakes is excessive. “For something the size of a slice, it’s way overpriced. I’d rather just buy a full slice of cake,” she said.
The trend has also been criticized on television. A recent broadcast featured panelists debating the cost of the mini cakes after 21-year-old dancer Harimu showcased baseball-sized cakes priced at 16,000 won each. “For that price, you could buy an entire cake from Paris Baguette,” actor Heo Hyung-kyu remarked. “And you’d finish this in just two spoonfuls.”
Bakers have acknowledged the higher prices but argue that the small cakes require more skill and effort to make. “Making these tiny cakes does take more precision than regular-sized cakes,” said Ms. Kim, who owns a local bakery in Gyeonggi Province. “But some of them are overpriced, especially when you consider the cost of ingredients.”
Despite the price concerns, the trend of micro cakes continues to grow, offering a new twist on the classic dessert experience. Whether driven by practicality, aesthetic appeal, or just the desire for something unique, one thing is clear: mini cakes have captured the hearts – and appetites – of many across South Korea.
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