Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup 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 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream, as needed; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Golden Recipes

I love making special treats for loved ones, and this Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting is perfect for celebrations. The delicious combination of fluffy vanilla cake and rich, creamy frosting creates a delightful dessert that truly stands out. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and the heart shape adds a personal touch that everyone appreciates. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners. Let's dive into this sweet creation!

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:29:35.363Z

When I first made this Mini Heart Cake, it was for a special occasion, and I didn't expect it to become a favorite. The vanilla bean frosting, made with real beans, adds a depth of flavor that truly elevates the cake, and I couldn't believe how simple it was to make. I remember carefully folding in the ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy, which made all the difference.

As I shared the cake with friends, their smiles said it all. Each piece was filled with love and sweetness, and it quickly became a staple at gatherings. The heart shape is not just charming; it also serves as a reminder of the love we share during those precious moments together.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The charming heart shape adds a personal touch to any occasion.
Rich vanilla flavor enhanced by the unique taste of vanilla beans.
A creamy frosting that complements the light texture of the cake perfectly.

      

The Heart of the Cake

The heart shape of this mini cake makes it extra special for celebrations. Using a heart-shaped cake pan not only elevates the visual appeal but also allows for even baking due to its shape. Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly to avoid sticking; a light dusting of flour afterward can create an additional non-stick surface. If you don’t have a heart-shaped pan, any small cake pan will work, and you can simply cut the cake into heart shapes after baking.

The texture of this vanilla cake is wonderfully light and fluffy, thanks to the combination of creaming the butter and sugar and the incorporation of eggs. For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature—this is crucial for achieving a light batter. Watching for the pale color and fluffy consistency during mixing is key; it usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed. If over-mixed, the cake can become dense, so stop when just combined.

Frosting Fundamentals

The vanilla bean frosting brings together the flavors of the cake beautifully. Using vanilla bean paste adds those lovely specks and a more intense flavor profile than using regular vanilla extract. Be sure to check the consistency of your frosting; it should be glossy and spreadable. If it's too thick, gradually mix in more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired texture. The addition of a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness of the frosting.

When frosting the cooled cake, remember to use a spatula or an offset knife for smooth application. Start by applying a thin layer to seal in any crumbs, often called a crumb coat, and let it set for about 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator. After the crumb coat firms up, you can add a second, thicker layer. This method ensures a clean, professional look and helps the frosting stay intact, especially if you plan to decorate with additional toppings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delightful Mini Heart Cake!

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup 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 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream, as needed
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have your baking utensils ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mini Heart Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Cake Batter

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared heart-shaped pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste, and blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency with heavy cream.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the creamy vanilla bean frosting evenly on top. Decorate as desired.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Mini Heart Cake!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a uniform batter and a light, fluffy cake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This mini heart cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake it one or two days prior to your celebration and store it at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it moist. If you anticipate needing longer, consider freezing the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic and aluminum foil; it can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to serve, let it thaw completely before frosting.

Once frosted, it's best to enjoy the cake within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you notice the cake becoming dry, you can brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water to revive its moisture.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize this mini heart cake with different flavors. For a chocolate twist, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder, and adjust the sugar according to taste. You can also incorporate fruit puree like strawberries or lemon zest into the batter for an added flavor explosion. Simply mix about 1/4 cup of puree in with the wet ingredients, but keep an eye on the moisture level in the batter.

For the frosting, consider adding other flavors like almond extract or citrus zest for a refreshing twist. You can also fold in cream cheese for a tangy frosting alternative. Decorate with fresh fruit, edible glitter, or sprinkles to enhance its visual appeal. Mixing in small pieces of fruit or nuts can also add texture, making each bite unique.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cake pan?

Yes, you can use any shape you prefer, just adjust the baking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for vanilla bean paste?

You can use high-quality vanilla extract, but the flavor won't be as pronounced.