Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup strawberry jam

Highlighted under: Special Collection

I absolutely love baking these Mini Heart Cakes with a strawberry jam center! They are the perfect little treats for any occasion, whether it's a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends. The fluffy texture of the cake combined with the sweet and tangy jam creates a delightful surprise in every bite. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients. I can't wait for you to try them and see how they steal the show at your next celebration!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:06:34.668Z

When I first baked these Mini Heart Cakes, I was amazed at how simple yet elegant they turned out. The secret lies in the light and airy batter that allows for a perfect rise, creating ideal little hearts. Incorporating a strawberry jam center was a last-minute decision that paid off, adding a burst of flavor and color to each cake.

After experimenting with different jams, I found that a homemade strawberry jam really elevates the dessert. The freshness and sweetness complement the soft cake perfectly. If you're short on time, feel free to use store-bought jam, but don’t skimp on the heart shape; it makes all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape that’s perfect for any occasion.
Surprise strawberry jam center adds a delightful twist.
Light and fluffy texture makes these cakes irresistible.

      

Perfecting the Mini Heart Cake

When making these Mini Heart Cakes, achieving the right texture is essential. The key to a fluffy cake lies in the creaming process. Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for optimal aeration. When you cream the butter and sugar together, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes. This process introduces air bubbles that will help the cakes rise beautifully in the oven.

Another important aspect is the mixing of the wet and dry ingredients. Be cautious not to overmix after adding the flour mixture. Combining until just incorporated will lead to a tender cake, while overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a denser texture. A gentle folding motion with a spatula can help maintain the lightness of the batter.

Jam Center Techniques

The strawberry jam center is the star of these Mini Heart Cakes. For the best results, use a high-quality jam that has a robust flavor. If you prefer a smoother texture, consider heating the jam gently before adding it to the batter. This can make it easier to spoon and creates a more integrated flavor throughout the cake. Aim for a jam that is not too runny to prevent it from leaking out during baking.

To prevent the jam from burning on the edges while baking, adding a layer of batter above and below the jam is crucial. I recommend spooning the jam into the center of the batter-filled molds and then topping with a little extra batter to encase the jam completely. This ensures the jam stays in the middle where it belongs, creating that delightful surprise when you cut into the cake.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

For the Mini Heart Cakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup strawberry jam

Make sure to check your ingredients for freshness to enhance the flavor of your cakes.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a mini heart cake pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Fill the Pans

Spoon the batter into each heart mold, filling them about halfway. Add a dollop of strawberry jam in the center of each cake, then top with more batter until each mold is three-quarters full.

Bake the Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a charming finish.

Pro Tips

These Mini Heart Cakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For an extra touch, drizzle with chocolate ganache or serve with fresh strawberries.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Mini Heart Cakes can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for parties or gatherings. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you're preparing them further in advance, consider freezing them. Wrap each cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw them at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

If you have leftovers, try reheating them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will help restore some of that freshly-baked softness. Serving them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate their presentation and flavor.

Flavor Variations

While strawberry jam is a classic filling, feel free to experiment with other flavors! Raspberry, blueberry, or apricot jams can offer delightful variations, each bringing a unique twist to the cakes. You can also try incorporating fresh fruit pieces into the batter to complement the jam flavor. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if adding extra moisture from fruits.

Another variation to consider is adding a hint of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the batter. This can enhance the sweetness of the jam and bring freshness to the overall flavor. Mixing in a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla can also add a lovely depth, creating a marzipan-like flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit jams.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of jam?

Absolutely! Any fruit jam or preserve that you enjoy can be used as the center.

→ Can I make these cakes in advance?

Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving.

→ What if I don't have a heart-shaped pan?

You can use a regular muffin tin, just adjust the baking time as necessary.

→ Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches if your oven space is limited.