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: 6 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp milk

Highlighted under: Classic Collection

I love making mini heart cakes, especially when I need something sweet to show my affection. This Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Sponge is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a romantic dinner or a fun celebration with friends. The fluffy vanilla sponge pairs beautifully with a light frosting, creating a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. I find that using quality vanilla and taking the time to properly mix the batter makes all the difference in flavor and texture.

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:45:35.148Z

When I first tried making mini heart cakes, I was surprised by how easy they were to put together! The simple vanilla sponge recipe is so versatile; you can dress it up in countless ways. I remember experimenting with different fillings and frostings until I found the perfect combination. Trust me, the little touches like a sprinkle of edible glitter or fresh berries on top will elevate the presentation and taste!

This recipe has become a go-to for me, especially on special occasions. I love that these mini cakes allow for personal touches—whether you want to add chocolate chips to the batter or a citrus zest for a flavorful twist, the possibilities are endless. Plus, they bake quickly and look so charming when served!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fluffy vanilla sponge that melts in your mouth
Adorable mini heart shape that's perfect for gifting
Customizable with your favorite fillings and toppings

      

Mastering the Vanilla Sponge

The foundation of this Mini Heart Cake lies in the vanilla sponge, which should be light and airy. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a consistency that's fluffy and pale, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer. This is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, contributing to that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don't rush this step; the better your base, the more delightful your cake will be.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in shaping the texture of your sponge. For instance, using room temperature eggs helps in achieving a more uniform batter, fostering even baking. If you’re out of milk, you can substitute it with almond milk or even yogurt for a richer flavor. The key is to maintain the liquid-to-dry ingredient ratio for optimum moistness.

Perfecting the Frosting

Frosting is where you can really let your creativity shine, but consistency is key. If your frosting feels too thick, add milk incrementally, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a spreadable but firm texture. Conversely, if it's too runny, you can thicken it by gradually incorporating more powdered sugar. It’s essential to beat the butter until it’s creamy before adding the sugar to avoid lumps.

Another tip is to let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This helps prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off. If you prefer a firmer frosting, you can refrigerate it for about 15 minutes after mixing, giving it a chance to set before spreading it on the cakes.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make the baking process smoother.

For the Vanilla Sponge

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

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk

Make sure to have all ingredients measured before you begin baking.

Instructions

Preheat your oven and prepare your baking pans before starting.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your mini heart-shaped cake pans.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar; mix until smooth. Stir in vanilla and enough milk to reach desired consistency.

Frost the Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cool, remove them from the pans and place them on a serving platter. Spread frosting on top of each cake and decorate as desired.

Enjoy your delicious mini heart cakes and share them with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some edible glitter or add fresh berries on top of the frosting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mini Heart Cake can be made a day in advance, making it ideal for special occasions. Once frosted, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing the unfrosted cakes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting.

If you're planning to serve the cakes the next day, you could also bake the sponge in advance and freeze it. Just be sure to cool it completely before wrapping to prevent condensation and sogginess. After thawing, simply frost and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving this Mini Heart Cake with a side of fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a more luxurious presentation. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream will elevate the experience, making it a delightful treat at any gathering.

You can also make these cakes even more special by adding layers of jam or whipped cream between them. For a twist, try flavored whipped cream by mixing in a bit of fruit puree or cocoa powder for added depth. The customization options are endless!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cakes in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container until you are ready to frost and serve.

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

You can use regular round pans and simply cut the cooled cakes into heart shapes using a template.

→ Can I substitute the butter in the frosting?

You can use cream cheese for a tangy variation, or a dairy-free alternative if you need a vegan option.

→ What variations can I try for flavor?

Feel free to add lemon zest or almond extract to the sponge, or try different flavor extracts in the frosting!