Heart Cake: Love in Every Bite
This heart-shaped cake is the perfect dessert for any celebration, whether it’s Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or a birthday. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll create a soft, moist, and decadently flavored cake that’s both tasty and heartfelt.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream optional for extra smoothness
- A pinch of salt
For Decoration (Optional):
- Fresh edible flowers roses, violets, etc.
- Sprinkles or edible glitter
- Red or pink food coloring for frosting optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your heart-shaped cake pan or use parchment paper to line the base.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with a third of the dry ingredients, then a third of the milk, mixing well after each addition. Continue until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared heart-shaped pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. Add heavy cream if you want a smoother, silkier frosting.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Decorate with edible flowers, sprinkles, or any other toppings you prefer.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve to your loved ones. Enjoy!
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to customize the flavor by adding lemon zest, orange zest, or cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
- Storage: Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Frosting Tip: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.