Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Sponge

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Sponge
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar for dusting; Fresh berries (optional); Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Meals

I’m excited to share my recipe for Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Sponge! These delightful little cakes have become a cherished part of our celebrations. They're not only adorable but also incredibly tasty, featuring a light vanilla sponge that is fluffy and airy. Each bite feels like a little piece of joy. Whether I'm making them for a birthday or a romantic dessert, these mini cakes always steal the show. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll find yourself making them for every occasion!

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:45:34.202Z

When I first decided to create a mini heart cake, I knew I wanted to highlight the simplicity of a vanilla sponge. I experimented a few times to get the texture just right, and it was worth every attempt. Using quality vanilla extract made a noticeable difference, adding depth to the flavor while keeping things light and airy.

What truly sets these cakes apart is the presentation. I love using heart-shaped molds, as they not only look charming but also make them perfect for gifting. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few berries do wonders for the final touch too!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape perfect for romantic occasions
Light and fluffy vanilla sponge cake that melts in your mouth
Easy to customize with different fillings and toppings

      

Mastering the Vanilla Sponge

The key to achieving a light and fluffy vanilla sponge lies in the creaming technique. When you beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together, aim for a pale and fluffy consistency. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to the cake's airy texture. If your butter isn’t properly softened, you may struggle to achieve this consistency, leading to a denser cake, so let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes beforehand.

The importance of alternating dry ingredients with the milk cannot be understated. This method prevents overmixing, which can develop gluten in the flour and result in a tough cake. Instead, mix until just incorporated to ensure the sponge remains tender and light. You can also swap out the all-purpose flour for cake flour if you want an even softer crumb, but keep in mind that cake flour is less absorbent, so adjust the milk slightly.

Tips for Perfect Decoration

Dusting your mini heart cakes with powdered sugar not only adds a touch of elegance but also balances the sweetness. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to your whipped cream before whipping; this elevates the taste and complements the vanilla sponge beautifully. When making whipped cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are chilled to achieve stiff peaks more quickly.

Fresh berries can be a stunning topping, but they also provide contrast in flavor. Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries are great options; choose berries that are bright and firm for the best visual impact. If you have a seasonal fruit, feel free to experiment! Just remember to wash them gently to avoid bruising before placing them onto your cakes.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Sponge

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
Pinch of salt

For Decoration

Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh berries (optional)
Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your heart-shaped molds with butter.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

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

Fill Molds and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared molds, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Decorate

Allow the mini cakes to cool for 10 minutes in the molds, then transfer to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and top with berries or whipped cream if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider adding a layer of jam or cream between the sponge layers. You can also experiment with different flavored extracts in the batter to suit your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These mini heart cakes can be baked a day in advance. Once cooled completely, wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap to retain moisture, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to keep them longer, freeze the cakes for up to a month. Make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

For an easy make-ahead decoration, consider preparing the whipped cream and fresh berries earlier in the day. Just keep the whipped cream covered in the refrigerator and add the berries just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent excess moisture from soaking into the cake.

Scaling Up for Larger Celebrations

If you're planning a larger gathering, scaling up this recipe is straightforward. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of cakes you wish to create. Keep in mind that you may need to bake in batches if you have limited oven space. Make sure to adjust your baking time slightly if you decide to use larger cake molds, checking for doneness using the toothpick method at the 25-30 minute mark.

For variety, consider incorporating different flavors into the batter. For instance, you can replace half of the milk with fruit puree, such as banana or applesauce, to create a different flavor profile while maintaining moisture. This also gives you an excellent opportunity to customize each mini heart cake batch to cater to different tastes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cakes in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Decorate them just before serving for the best presentation.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use apple sauce or a commercial egg replacer. Just keep the same quantity as eggs.

→ How do I ensure my cakes are fluffy?

Make sure to cream the butter and sugar properly and not to overmix the batter once you add the flour.

→ Can I freeze the mini cakes?

Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to three months.