Throwing a party can be a lot of fun, but finding the perfect treats to impress your guests can be quite the challenge. That’s why I decided to put together a list of 13 mini cake ideas that are not only adorable but also totally crowd-pleasers. Mini cakes are the ultimate show-stoppers. They pack a punch of flavor into bite-sized delights, making them perfect for any gathering.
If you’re someone who loves to host parties or simply enjoys cute desserts, this post is made just for you. You’ll find a collection of mini cake inspiration that will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of whimsy to your celebrations. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, a baby shower, or a casual get-together, these mini cakes are bound to steal the show.
What can you expect from this list? Each mini cake idea brings its own flair and taste, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Picture rainbow layer cakes bursting with color, decadent chocolate lava mini cakes that ooze joy, or refreshing lemon blueberry bites that dance on your palate. These treats are easy to make and sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to be inspired to whip up some stunning desserts that will have everyone raving and reaching for seconds!
Get ready to bring some sweetness to your next event with these delightful mini cake ideas. Your parties will be more unforgettable than ever!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 13 unique mini cake ideas that cater to diverse tastes, perfect for any celebration.
– Mini cakes like chocolate lava and strawberry shortcake offer a mix of flavors that everyone will love.
– Each recipe is designed to be simple to follow, making them great for bakers of all skill levels.
– Mini cakes add a fun and festive touch to parties, ensuring your dessert table looks as good as it tastes.
– Make your gatherings memorable with these cute desserts that are sure to be the highlight of your event.
1. Rainbow Layer Mini Cakes
Nothing screams celebration like a burst of colors! Rainbow layer mini cakes are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Each layer is tinted in bright hues, creating an eye-catching presentation when cut. Imagine serving these at a birthday party where everyone can enjoy their own little slice of happiness.
To make these beauties, you’ll need:
– Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp baking powder
– Food coloring in various colors
– Vanilla extract for flavor
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 250 per mini cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together your butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in milk and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in flour and baking powder until just combined.
6. Divide the batter into six bowls and color each with food dye.
7. Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans, layering to create the rainbow effect.
8. Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Allow to cool before frosting.
– Use cream cheese frosting to complement the sweetness of the cake.
– Top with sprinkles for added fun!
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! They can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
– Can I use other flavors? Absolutely! Experiment with chocolate or almond extracts.
These rainbow mini cakes bring joy and nostalgia, making them unbeatable for any gathering!
2. Chocolate Lava Mini Cakes
Who doesn’t love a chocolatey dessert? Chocolate lava mini cakes are the perfect indulgence with their molten center that oozes out when cut. These decadent treats are an irresistible option for chocolate lovers and are sure to bring joy to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– ½ cup unsweetened chocolate, chopped
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 large egg yolks
– 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
– A pinch of salt
Overview:
– Servings: 8 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 12 minutes
– Total Time: 32 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and grease your ramekins.
2. Melt chocolate and butter in a bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until incorporated.
4. Add eggs and egg yolks, mixing until everything is well combined.
5. Gently fold in flour and salt until just mixed.
6. Pour batter into prepared ramekins and bake for 12 minutes.
7. Let them cool for a minute before inverting onto plates.
– Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
– Remember, the key is not to overbake!
FAQs:
– Can I use a different type of chocolate? Yes, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.
– What do I do if they stick? Ensure your ramekins are well-greased and floured.
These mini lava cakes are perfect for impressing guests and satisfying those chocolate cravings!
3. Lemon Blueberry Mini Cakes
Fresh and fruity, lemon blueberry mini cakes are a wonderful way to celebrate spring and summer. The tartness of lemon perfectly complements the sweetness of blueberries, creating a balanced flavor that everyone will love. These cakes are light, refreshing, and the ideal dessert for warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– ½ cup buttermilk
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– A pinch of salt
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 220 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your mini cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
4. Add eggs and lemon zest, mixing well.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, folding in blueberries last.
6. Pour batter into pans and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Allow cooling before serving.
– Drizzle with lemon glaze for extra sweetness.
– Fresh mint makes a lovely garnish!
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, just make sure to fold them in gently to avoid color bleeding.
– Are these gluten-free? Substitute with a gluten-free flour mix for a gluten-free version.
These lemon blueberry mini cakes are sure to brighten your table and delight your guests!
Hosting a spring party? Lemon blueberry mini cakes are your easy, crowd-pleasing hero—light, refreshing, and totally doable. They turn everyday dessert into mini cake inspo you can actually pull off, letting you serve style without the stress.
4. Red Velvet Mini Cakes
Red velvet mini cakes are a classic that never goes out of style. Their rich flavor and striking color make them a show-stopping dessert choice for any event, particularly around Valentine’s Day or Christmas. These bite-sized cakes, paired with cream cheese frosting, are a match made in dessert heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp cocoa powder
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp red food coloring
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp white vinegar
– A pinch of salt
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 300 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, and vanilla.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then add baking soda and vinegar.
5. Pour batter into the pans and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Cool before frosting with cream cheese icing.
– For an extra touch, sprinkle with red velvet crumbs on top.
– Chill the cakes before frosting for a more manageable assembly.
FAQs:
– Can I use a different frosting? Yes! Cream cheese, vanilla buttercream, or even whipped cream would work well.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
These red velvet mini cakes are perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor to your dessert spread!
5. Carrot Cake Mini Cakes
For those who love a bit of spice and texture in their dessert, carrot cake mini cakes are the way to go! These moist cakes, made with grated carrots, pineapple, and warm spices, are perfect for any occasion, especially spring celebrations. Topped with cream cheese frosting, these mini treats are both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– ½ tsp nutmeg
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– A pinch of salt
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 250 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat sugars and oil until smooth, then add eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in grated carrots and crushed pineapple.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Bake for 25 minutes and let them cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
– Add crushed walnuts for a delightful crunch.
– Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flair.
FAQs:
– Can I add raisins? Absolutely! They add a lovely sweetness.
– How long do they last? These mini cakes last about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Carrot cake mini cakes are a delightful way to include a classic flavor in a fun-sized treat!
6. Matcha Green Tea Mini Cakes
For the tea lovers out there, matcha green tea mini cakes offer a unique twist on traditional desserts. With their vibrant green color and earthy flavor, these cakes are not only visually stunning but also provide a delightful taste that’s perfect for tea parties or afternoon gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 2 tbsp matcha powder
– ½ cup milk
– A pinch of salt
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 180 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well.
4. Add the matcha powder, milk, and dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour batter into pans and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Cool before serving plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.
– Pair with a sweetened green tea for a delightful combo.
– For a twist, add white chocolate chips to the batter!
FAQs:
– Can I use different types of flour? Yes, almond or coconut flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
– How should I store these? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week.
These matcha green tea mini cakes are a refreshing and stylish addition to any dessert table!
7. Cookies and Cream Mini Cakes
Combining the beloved flavors of cookies and cream, these mini cakes are sure to be a hit among both kids and adults. With layers of rich chocolate cake and fluffy cookies and cream frosting, they make for an indulgent treat that’s also visually pleasing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup milk
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
– 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 350 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking powder.
3. Cream butter and mix in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients and milk until smooth.
5. Fold in crushed Oreos and pour into pans.
6. Bake for 20 minutes. Cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form; mix in crushed Oreos for frosting.
– Add whole Oreos on top for presentation.
– For extra flavor, a splash of vanilla extract in the frosting works wonders!
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they store well in the fridge for a few days.
– How do I prevent sticking? Ensure pans are well-greased and floured.
These cookies and cream mini cakes are perfect for parties and movie nights!
8. Strawberry Shortcake Mini Cakes
Capture the essence of summer with strawberry shortcake mini cakes! These delightful treats combine layers of fluffy vanilla cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, creating a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. They are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a wedding reception!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup milk
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 220 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
3. Mix in eggs one by one, then add baking powder and flour alternately with milk.
4. Pour into pans and bake for 20 minutes. Cool.
5. Whip heavy cream until fluffy and layer cakes with whipped cream and strawberries.
– Use a mix of strawberries and raspberries for variety.
– Drizzle with strawberry syrup for an extra touch.
FAQs:
– Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Just substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
– How do I keep them fresh? Store in the fridge until ready to serve.
These strawberry shortcake mini cakes are a crowd-pleaser that balances flavors beautifully!
9. Peanut Butter Cup Mini Cakes
If you’re a fan of peanut butter, these mini cakes will absolutely delight you! Layered with rich chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting, these treats are perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike. They are not only satisfying but also fun to eat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup milk
– ½ cup peanut butter (for frosting)
– 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking powder.
3. Cream butter until fluffy, then add eggs and alternate with dry ingredients and milk.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool.
5. Whip heavy cream and mix in peanut butter for frosting; layer between cooled cakes.
– Drizzle with chocolate syrup for added indulgence.
– Use mini peanut butter cups as a garnish.
FAQs:
– Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, substitute with dairy-free butter and cream.
– How long do they last? Store in the fridge for about 4 days.
These peanut butter cup mini cakes are the perfect treat for parties and reunions!
10. Chocolate Mint Mini Cakes
For those who enjoy the refreshing flavor of mint paired with rich chocolate, chocolate mint mini cakes are just the thing. These cakes offer a delicious combination of flavors that evoke the classic mint chocolate treats we all love, making them perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup milk
– 1 tsp peppermint extract (for frosting)
– 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 350 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking powder.
3. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time.
4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk until smooth.
5. Bake for 20 minutes. Cool before frosting.
6. Whip heavy cream and mix in peppermint extract for frosting; layer between cakes.
– Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch.
– Add chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
– Is the flavor very strong? Adjust the peppermint extract to your preference!
These chocolate mint mini cakes provide a refreshing alternative while still being indulgent!
Fun fact: mint actually heightens perceived sweetness, so a rich chocolate pairing lets you cut sugar while keeping flavor bold. This is perfect mini cake inspo for parties—minty freshness in every bite.
11. Coconut Cream Mini Cakes
Coconut cream mini cakes are like a tropical getaway on a plate! They consist of light, fluffy cake layers paired with creamy coconut frosting, and they’re perfect for summer gatherings or beach-themed parties. These cakes transport you to a sunny paradise with every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup coconut milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 250 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
3. Add eggs one by one, then stir in baking powder and flour.
4. Mix in coconut milk and shredded coconut until well combined.
5. Pour batter into pans and bake for 20 minutes. Cool.
6. Whip heavy cream for frosting and layer between cakes.
– Top with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
– Serve with a side of pineapple for a tropical touch.
FAQs:
– Can I use coconut extract? Yes, it enhances the coconut flavor.
– How do I store these? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.
These coconut cream mini cakes are a delightful treat that brings a taste of the tropics to your dessert table!
12. S’mores Mini Cakes
For a fun twist on a classic campfire treat, s’mores mini cakes combine all the flavors of s’mores into one delicious dessert! Layered with chocolate cake, marshmallow frosting, and graham cracker crumbs, these mini cakes are perfect for outdoor gatherings and barbecues.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup milk
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 400 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking powder.
3. Cream butter and mix in eggs, alternating with dry ingredients and milk.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Cool completely.
5. Whip heavy cream and fold in mini marshmallows for frosting; layer between cooled cakes and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers.
– Toast the mini marshmallows for a fun twist.
– For added flavor, mix in some chocolate chips to the batter!
FAQs:
– Can I make these vegan? Yes, use a flax egg and dairy-free alternatives.
– Do they need to be refrigerated? It’s best to keep them cool, especially with the frosting.
These s’mores mini cakes are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer, no campfire needed!
13. Pumpkin Spice Mini Cakes
Embrace the flavors of fall with pumpkin spice mini cakes! Bursting with warm spices and pumpkin goodness, these cakes are perfect for autumn celebrations or Thanksgiving gatherings. They come to life with cream cheese frosting and are sure to please every guest at your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– ½ tsp nutmeg
– A pinch of salt
Overview:
– Servings: 12 mini cakes
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 250 per cake
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease mini cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy.
3. Add eggs and pumpkin puree, mixing until well combined.
4. Stir in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour into pans and bake for 20 minutes. Allow to cool before frosting.
6. Top with cream cheese frosting, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
– Add chopped pecans for delightful crunch.
– Serve warm for an extra comforting touch.
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they keep well in the fridge for a few days.
– Is it necessary to use fresh pumpkin? Canned pumpkin puree works just as well!
These pumpkin spice mini cakes are a warm and cozy way to celebrate the fall season!
Pumpkin spice popularity spikes every autumn—searches jump by about 40%. DIY mini cakes let you ride that wave with guaranteed crowd-pleasers. It’s mini cake inspo you can bake tonight, turning cozy flavors into sweet party moments.
Conclusion
From vibrant rainbow cakes to cozy pumpkin spice delights, mini cakes are a fantastic way to impress your guests and add a sweet touch to any gathering. Each of these recipes offers a unique flavor and style, making it easy to find something perfect for all occasions. So, whether you’re hosting a birthday, a holiday party, or simply want to treat yourself, mini cakes are a delightful choice that everyone will love.
Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize these recipes with your favorite flavors and decorations. Your next celebration is just a mini cake away!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Creative Mini Cake Ideas for Parties?
If you want to impress your guests, think outside the box with creative mini cake ideas! Consider flavors like lavender lemon or chocolate raspberry for a unique twist. You can also play with designs, such as mini tiered cakes or themed cakes that match your party decor. Remember, the more visually appealing your mini cakes are, the more they’ll steal the show!
How Can I Customize Mini Cakes for Different Occasions?
Customizing mini cakes for different occasions is all about the theme and flavor. For a wedding, you might choose elegant flavors like vanilla almond with delicate decorations. For a birthday party, opt for fun flavors like cookies and cream and vibrant colors. Don’t forget to consider dietary restrictions—gluten-free or vegan options can be just as delicious!
What Are Some Easy Mini Cake Recipes for Beginners?
Beginners can start with simple recipes like mini vanilla cupcakes or chocolate lava cakes. These recipes usually require basic ingredients and minimal steps, making them perfect for your first baking adventure. You can also find no-bake mini cake recipes, which are super easy and fun for kids and adults alike!
How Do I Decorate Mini Cakes to Make Them Stand Out?
Decorating mini cakes can be a fun and creative process! Use bright icing and edible glitter for a festive touch. Fresh fruits, edible flowers, or even themed cake toppers can elevate the look. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different textures like sprinkles or crushed cookies for added flair!
Where Can I Find Inspiration for Mini Cake Designs?
Finding mini cake inspo is easier than ever! Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are filled with stunning cake designs. You can also check out baking blogs or YouTube channels dedicated to cake decorating. Don’t forget to look at seasonal events or holidays for themed ideas that can make your mini cakes truly special!
Related Topics
mini cake inspo
party desserts
cute treats
easy baking
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finger food
festive sweets
DIY mini cakes
quick party ideas
family-friendly desserts
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