Mini Heart Cake for Valentines

Name: Mini Heart Cake for Valentines
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Red food coloring (optional); Heart-shaped sprinkles, for decoration

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Celebrate love with these delightful Mini Heart Cakes, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any romantic occasion.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-04T11:25:15.134Z

This Mini Heart Cake for Valentines is a charming dessert that embodies love in every bite. With a rich chocolate flavor and a hint of sweetness, it's the perfect way to show someone you care.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Sweet Gesture for Your Loved Ones

Valentine's Day is a special occasion to express your love and affection, and what better way to do that than with a homemade treat? These Mini Heart Cakes are not just visually appealing; they are a heartfelt gesture that shows how much you care. The act of baking for someone special can create lasting memories, making these cakes the perfect addition to your celebration.

These Mini Heart Cakes are ideal for sharing. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these cakes will certainly impress. Their delightful presentation and rich flavors will have everyone wanting a second slice. Plus, their small size makes them perfect for portion control, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.

Perfect Pairing with Beverages

Pair these Mini Heart Cakes with your favorite beverages for an elevated experience. A cup of hot chocolate or a glass of red wine harmonizes beautifully with the rich chocolate flavor of the cake. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving them with a refreshing citrus-infused lemonade, which complements the orange zest in the cake and adds a bright contrast to the sweetness.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider creating a mini dessert bar. Offer a variety of drinks alongside your heart-shaped cakes, allowing guests to mix and match flavors. This not only enhances the overall dining experience but also encourages socializing and interaction among your guests, making your celebration memorable.

Baking Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Red food coloring (optional)
Heart-shaped sprinkles, for decoration

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two heart-shaped cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Stir in vanilla and food coloring if desired.

Assemble the Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate with heart-shaped sprinkles.

Allow the cake to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding orange zest to the frosting or cake batter.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Mini Heart Cakes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain their moist texture and rich flavor. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full taste and texture.

You can also freeze these cakes for up to three months. Wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving or warming in a microwave for a few seconds.

Customizing Your Mini Heart Cakes

Feel free to personalize your Mini Heart Cakes to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime zest for a different citrus flavor. You can also experiment with various extracts such as almond or almond extract to add a unique twist to the traditional chocolate cake.

For those looking for a healthier version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. You can also use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar, adjusting the liquid ingredients accordingly for consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

→ What if I don’t have heart-shaped pans?

You can use regular round pans and cut the cakes into heart shapes after baking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.