Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Ganache
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Classic Collection

I absolutely love making the Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Ganache because it's perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat for loved ones. The intimate size of these cakes makes them ideal for sharing, while the rich chocolate ganache provides an indulgent finish. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, and the heart shape adds a charming touch. I find that this recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and chocolatey richness, making it one of my go-to desserts for celebrations.

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:53:34.984Z

When I first baked these Mini Heart Cakes, I realized that the size makes them incredibly versatile. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a sweet surprise, they’re easy to assemble and present wonderfully.

One tip I have learned is to let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cakes. This will help achieve a stunning glossy finish that not only looks impressive but also enhances the overall flavor by ensuring even coverage.

        Why You'll 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

      

The Importance of Heart-Shaped Cakes

Heart-shaped cakes bring a whimsical charm to any celebration. Using small heart-shaped pans not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a sense of intimacy, making each serving feel special. When baking, it's essential to ensure even cooking by not overcrowding the oven; if possible, bake one set of cakes at a time. This simple adjustment will help achieve beautifully risen cakes without uneven edges.

The unique shape of these cakes also means you can experiment with stacking and presentation. When plating, consider decorating the sides with crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles to enhance the heart shape's visual impact. I've found that a well-decorated cake draws even more attention, making it a centerpiece that is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Perfecting the Chocolate Ganache

The secret to a smooth and glossy ganache lies in the temperature of the cream. When heating the heavy cream, it should be brought to just a simmer instead of a full boil, as boiling can cause the chocolate to seize up, resulting in a gritty texture. You'll know it’s ready when you see small bubbles forming at the edges. Stir the mixture gently after adding the chocolate chips to ensure a creamy consistency without incorporating too much air.

If you wish to alter the flavor profile of your ganache, consider using flavored chocolate chips or infusing the cream with orange zest while heating. This combination will echo the zest added to the cake, creating a harmonious flavor throughout. Should the ganache be too thick after cooling, gently warm it back up over a double boiler, stirring until it reaches your desired pourable consistency.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Ganache

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp unsalted butter

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease four heart-shaped cake pans.

Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract. Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the wet mixture until well blended.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pans.

Prepare the Ganache

While the cakes are cooling, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and butter until smooth.

Assemble and Serve

Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake on a plate and pour some ganache over it, spreading evenly. Top with another cake and repeat until all four are stacked. Pour remaining ganache over the top and let it set slightly before serving.

Enjoy your decadent Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Ganache!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache before it sets, or serve with fresh berries.

Serving Suggestions

When serving the Mini Heart Cake, try pairing it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added texture and flavor contrast. A dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the indulgent experience. I recommend serving slices with a drizzle of any remaining ganache for a professional touch—it’s those little details that can elevate your presentation.

For an extra touch, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder to create a beautiful, snowy finish. Similarly, fresh mint leaves can add a burst of color and freshness, brightening up the rich chocolate cake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare the cake ahead of time, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. This will keep them moist in the refrigerator. The chocolate ganache can also be made a day ahead; simply reheat it gently to bring it back to the desired pouring consistency when you’re ready to assemble.

For any leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to achieve the best texture and flavor. If you want to freeze the cake, individual slices can be wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and stored for up to a month—perfect for unexpected guests or future celebrations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a different flavor.

→ How should I store the leftover cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I do if the ganache is too thick?

If the ganache is too thick, you can add a little more warm heavy cream and stir until you reach the desired consistency.