Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Buttercream

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Buttercream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Cozy Food

When I first had the idea to create a Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Buttercream, I envisioned something that was both adorable and delicious. The moment I took my first bite, I was overjoyed by how the strawberry sweetness perfectly complemented the light, fluffy cake. It’s a fun project that allows you to showcase your creativity in the kitchen. Plus, it makes for a charming centerpiece at any gathering, and who doesn’t want to share a slice of love?

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:45:34.919Z

Creating this Mini Heart Cake was such a delightful experience. I wanted to make something that would surprise my family during our weekend get-together. As I mixed the ingredients, the aroma of vanilla filled the kitchen, which only heightened the excitement. After baking, I let the cakes cool completely before applying the strawberry buttercream, ensuring a smooth finish.

One of my tips for success is to use fresh strawberries in the buttercream, as their natural flavor really shines through. The vibrant pink hue adds an extra touch of love to the cake, truly making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape perfect for celebrations
Fresh strawberry flavor that’s simply irresistible
Easy to decorate, making it fun for all ages

      

Choosing the Perfect Strawberries

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the strawberries, so choosing the right ones is essential. Look for ripe, red strawberries that smell sweet and are firm to the touch. Avoid any that have blemishes or are overly soft, as these may compromise the flavor and texture of your buttercream. If fresh strawberries are out of season, frozen ones can work in a pinch; just be sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing.

For a fun twist, try mixing in a few different types of berries, like raspberries or blueberries, for a mixed berry buttercream. This not only changes the flavor profile slightly but also adds a pop of color to your cake.

Understanding the Cake Texture

This cake is designed to be light and fluffy, thanks to the creaming method where butter and sugar are whipped together until airy. Be sure to cream them together for about 3-5 minutes to incorporate enough air into the mixture. Over-creaming can make the cake tough, so just watch for that fluffy texture before adding the eggs.

When mixing dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour. A few lumps are okay, as this will help maintain that desired tenderness and moisture in the final cake, ensuring that your heart-shaped creation is as soft as a cloud.

Decorating Tips for Stunning Presentation

As you assemble your Mini Heart Cake, feel free to get creative with your buttercream. Using a piping bag with a star tip can elevate the presentation, creating beautiful rosettes or swirls on top of the cake. If you don’t have a piping bag, a simple knife or spatula can work wonders for spreading and smoothing the frosting.

Don’t forget to consider garnishes. Fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Additionally, a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a light dusting of powdered sugar can add that extra touch to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Mini Heart Cake

For the Cake

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

For the Strawberry Buttercream

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Instructions

Instructions to Make the Cake

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in milk and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into the prepared heart-shaped pan and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Prepare the Buttercream

While the cakes cool, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Add milk as necessary to achieve desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, level the tops of the cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of strawberry buttercream, then top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.

Enjoy your delightful Mini Heart Cake, and don't forget to share a slice with someone you love!

Pro Tips

For extra flair, you can garnish the cake with fresh strawberries or edible flowers. Using room temperature ingredients helps achieve the best texture in your cake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this cake ahead of time, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the cake fresh longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, though be aware that refrigeration can sometimes change the texture of the buttercream. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, frost with strawberry buttercream, and serve!

Scaling Up for Larger Gatherings

If you're picturing a heart cake for a larger celebration, you can easily scale up the recipe. Simply multiply the ingredient amounts based on the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that baking time may also need adjustments; larger or multiple pans could require slightly longer baking times, so use the toothpick test to ensure they're baked through.

Another option is to create a layered cake by baking additional layers and stacking them. Just remember to adjust the buttercream consistency to ensure it holds up between layers and on the sides. This can create a visually stunning display that’s sure to be the highlight of any celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits?

Yes, you can substitute pureed strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries, adjusting the sugar level based on the fruit's sweetness.

→ How long will the cake last?

The cake will last for up to 3 days at room temperature when properly covered.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without frosting. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of butter for the frosting?

You can use vegan butter or coconut oil as a substitute for butter in the frosting if desired.