Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I’ve always admired the charm of mini cakes, particularly for special occasions. This Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting is my favorite creation because it combines the look of a traditional cake with a delightful twist. I love how these petite treats bring joy to the table, perfect for celebrating love or simply indulging in a sweet moment. The soft sponge cake paired with rich, aromatic frosting creates an irresistible combination that my family and friends can't resist. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished recipe in our home.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:57:34.303Z

When I first baked this Mini Heart Cake, I was amazed at how a simple recipe could ignite so much joy. The layout of the mini cakes not only made for stunning presentation but also created a fun atmosphere during my small family gathering. Experimenting with the frosting yielded a divine vanilla bean flavor that truly elevated the cake's taste.

As I ornate each heart-shaped cake, I realized that the key to success lies in the precision of every layer. The frosting needs to be whipped to just the right consistency—fluffy but hold its form well. This cake works wonderfully for anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or any time you want to express love through baking!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Adorable heart shape perfect for romantic occasions
Lush vanilla bean flavor that’s a twist on classic frosting
Easy to share, making it ideal for gatherings or as gifts

Key Techniques for a Perfect Mini Heart Cake

When preparing the batter for your Mini Heart Cake, it's crucial to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to a light and tender sponge. Aim for about 3-5 minutes of mixing on medium speed. If you see the mixture turning pale and fluffy, you’re on the right track! Also, be sure to add the eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully integrate before adding the next, which helps maintain that airy texture.

Pouring the batter into heart-shaped mini cake pans can be tricky, especially to ensure even distribution. A helpful tip is to use a kitchen scale to measure the batter for each pan, aiming for equal portions—this prevents uneven baking. Additionally, tapping the filled pans on the counter lightly before baking will help release any air bubbles, giving you a smooth-crowned cake.

Understanding Your Ingredients

The unsalted butter in both the cake and frosting is key for flavor and texture. By using unsalted butter, you can control the salt content better, allowing the natural flavors of your vanilla and sugar to shine through. Make sure your butter is at room temperature, which will help achieve the best creaming result—too cold and it won’t incorporate air well, too warm and it’ll melt instead of fluff up. This balance is essential for a light cake.

For the frosting, consider the importance of quality vanilla bean paste. It offers a stronger flavor and more pronounced specks of vanilla than regular extract, enhancing the overall aesthetic and taste of your frosting. If you can’t find paste, use a vanilla pod to scrape out the seeds or a high-quality vanilla extract. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on your preference for sweetness and flavor intensity.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your heart-shaped mini cake pans. Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until blended. Add the vanilla bean paste, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt; beat until light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, and add the second cake on top. Frost the top and sides as desired. Decorate with sprinkles or fresh berries for the final touch.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a hint of lemon zest to the frosting. Also, use high-quality vanilla bean paste to enhance the aromatic qualities of the frosting even further.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

These mini heart cakes can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for parties or celebrations. Bake the cakes up to 2 days in advance, allowing them to cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap to keep them moist. You can also freeze the cakes for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting to avoid excess moisture when icing.

The frosting can be made in advance as well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If it hardens, simply re-whip it briefly before using. This ensures your frosting remains fluffy and easy to spread. I believe this step saves time on the day of serving, allowing you to focus on assembling and decorating your adorable heart cakes.

Decoration and Serving Suggestions

While the frosting is delightful on its own, consider adding a variety of decorations to elevate the presentation of your Mini Heart Cakes. Fresh berries or edible flowers can not only add color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich vanilla flavor. Alternatively, dusting the tops with powdered sugar or cocoa can give a lovely finishing touch without overwhelming the cake’s sweetness.

These cakes are perfect for sharing! Since they're adorably small, you can present them on a large platter at gatherings, allowing guests to take their own. If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature. Just be careful with stacking them; use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They also make an excellent gift when packaged in a cute box tied with a ribbon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or a chocolate ganache would be fantastic alternatives.

→ How can I store the leftover cakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to a month.

→ Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day ahead and frost them on the day of serving for best results.