In Japan, as in many other countries, if you want to bake a birthday cake at home, you would typically need to buy the ingredients (such as sugar, flour, eggs, etc.) beforehand from a grocery store or a market. Unlike buying a cake from a bakery shop where the cost includes the labor, overhead, and profit margins, when baking at home, you are responsible for purchasing all the necessary ingredients yourself.
Baking a cake at home can be a more cost-effective option, especially if you have the necessary baking equipment and ingredients on hand. Additionally, baking your own cake allows you to customize the flavor, size, and decorations according to your preferences.
If you're looking to save on the cost of ingredients, you can look for discounts, sales, or bulk purchasing options at grocery stores. Sometimes, supermarkets offer loyalty programs or membership cards that provide discounts on certain items, including baking ingredients. Planning ahead and buying ingredients in larger quantities can also help reduce the overall cost per cake.
It's essential to keep in mind that while baking a birthday cake at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, it requires time, effort, and some baking skills. If you prefer a hassle-free option, purchasing a cake from a bakery shop might be a more convenient choice, even if it comes with a higher cost.