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: 4 mini cakes
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup milk; Whipped cream; Fresh berries; Chocolate shavings

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I absolutely adore crafting these Mini Heart Cakes with Vanilla Sponge. They are not just visually delightful but also a treat for the taste buds! The fluffy sponge combined with a light vanilla flavor makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it's a romantic dinner or a cheerful celebration. With each bite, the sweetness is perfectly balanced, making them a great way to brighten someone's day. Plus, they're easy to make and look impressive, even for beginner bakers like myself!

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:41:34.647Z

When I first attempted to make these Mini Heart Cakes, I was blown away by how charming and delicious they turned out. The key is using high-quality vanilla and ensuring you whip the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. This method creates a light and airy sponge that just melts in your mouth. Plus, I found that letting the cakes rest for a few minutes after baking enhances their flavor, making them even more irresistible!

I also discovered that using heart-shaped cake molds adds a personal touch that never goes unnoticed. Whether you serve them at a gathering or just surprise a loved one, the smiles they bring are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Trust me, this is a recipe you will want to keep in your back pocket for all sorts of celebrations!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Adorable heart shape perfect for special occasions
Light and fluffy vanilla sponge that everyone will enjoy
Simple to make yet looks professionally crafted

Perfecting the Sponge

The key to achieving a light and fluffy vanilla sponge is to properly aerate the eggs and sugar during the initial mixing stage. Beat them for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture significantly increases in volume and becomes pale in color. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for ensuring a soft texture in your heart cakes. Additionally, folding the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture prevents the batter from deflating, maintaining its airy quality.

When incorporating milk, use room temperature to ensure a smoother batter. Cold milk can lead to steam pockets during baking, causing unevenly baked cakes. If you wish to create a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, which works well without compromising the sponge's texture. Just remember that plant-based milks can vary in flavor, so choose one that complements vanilla.

Decorating with Flair

To elevate the aesthetic of your Mini Heart Cakes, consider the consistency of your whipped cream. Aim for medium peaks; it should hold its shape but still be spreadable. This allows for easy piping, whether you’re making rosettes or simple dollops. For a smoother appearance, you can briefly chill your piping bag and nozzle before use, minimizing any melting during decoration. This little trick helps maintain the presentation, especially on warm days.

When selecting fresh berries for decoration, I recommend strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries as they add not only vibrant color but also a delightful tartness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the sponge. If you're preparing these cakes ahead of time, add the berries just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and maintain their shape.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth baking experience.

For the Vanilla Sponge

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

For Decoration

Whipped cream
Fresh berries
Chocolate shavings

Once you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the next steps!

Instructions

Make sure your oven is preheated and your baking molds are ready before we start mixing the batter.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing continuously. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then fold into the egg mixture. Finally, add the milk and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into heart-shaped molds and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the molds for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Decorate

Once cooled, whip the cream and pipe it on top of the cakes. Feel free to add fresh berries and chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance!

Your Mini Heart Cakes are now ready to serve! Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Pro Tips

For best results, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. You can also experiment with different flavors, such as almond or lemon, by substituting the vanilla extract.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Mini Heart Cakes can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container. To keep them moist, you can place a slice of bread in the container to absorb excess moisture without drying out the cakes. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip up some fresh cream and decorate them quickly for a delightful presentation without the hassle.

If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing the un-decorated cakes. Place the cooled cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge before decorating.

Variations and Flavor Additions

For a chocolate twist on the vanilla sponge, you can replace a third of the all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. This adds a rich flavor while maintaining the lightness of the cake. Don’t forget to adjust the sugar slightly since cocoa can add a bit of bitterness depending on your taste preference.

Incorporate citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into your batter for a refreshing flavor enhancement. About 1-2 teaspoons will brighten the overall taste without overwhelming the delicate vanilla. This addition not only complements the vanilla beautifully but also adds a lovely aroma that will fill your kitchen while baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan option?

You can replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce in this recipe.

→ How do I ensure my cakes are fluffy?

Make sure to whip the eggs and sugar well and gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain airiness.

→ Can I freeze leftover Mini Heart Cakes?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.