Fran Merida's wonder goal was wiped out by Liverpool left-back Emiliano Insua's equally-spectacular long-ranger - before Bendtner lashed a 50th minute clincher.
Merida fired a 20-yarder in off the near post after 19 minutes to reward the young Gunners' clear edge in fluency early on - often inspired by midfielder Aaron Ramsey.
But nine minutes later Ryan Babel nodded down for Insua to grab his own special maiden goal. Insua's long-range volley swerved and dipped on its way in over keeper Lukasz Fabianski.
Bendtner - having dithered when he raced onto one opportunity - then delayed inexcusably with a gaping far-post chance, before ending a goalmouth scramble with a weak shot straight at Diego Cavalieri.
Yet it was Liverpool who ended the first half the stronger, David Ngog conjuring some dangerous runs.
Arsenal, though, responded with Bendtner's slightly fortuitous strike.
The enigmatic striker profited from a kind ricochet to wriggle clear and smash a left-footer in the top near corner.
Babel and Andriy Voronin led Liverpool's charge after that. But the Gunners' eager youngsters defended with pace and spirit.
And even Liverpool debutant Alberto Aquilani, on as a substitute, failed to deliver a second leveller, despite providing two superb passes within minutes of his arrival.
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