The 25-year-old cannot be named because he is mentally ill.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of larceny during an appearance in Dubbo Local Court via video link from Wellington Correctional Centre.

Prosecution facts tendered to the court said the man entered the Cobra Street Mini Mart at 6.55pm on May 5.

He approached the counter and selected eight slices of fruit cake and a lamington, with a total value of $11.90.

Police said the man told staff he had no money.

He picked up the items and started to walk out of the store.

When staff barred his way he went to the rear of the store and started to eat the cake.

The man left carrying uneaten cake after police were called.

When apprehended he told officers he was hungry and had no money.

The man was arrested again two days later after a mobile phone was allegedly stolen from a house in Lunar Avenue.

He has pleaded not guilty to charges of stealing, receiving property and having goods in his custody suspected of being stolen.

The man will return to court on August 22.

He did not apply for bail which was formally refused by the court.