Valentines Heart Cake Recipe

Name: Valentines Heart Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries; Chocolate shavings

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Valentines Heart Cake is a delightful and romantic dessert perfect for celebrating love. With its rich flavors and beautiful heart shape, it's sure to impress your special someone.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-02T03:25:10.909Z

This cake was inspired by the beauty of love and the sweetness of sharing special moments. Perfectly moist and fluffy, it's a celebration of flavors that pairs beautifully with a romantic dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Romantic Treat for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating Valentine's Day, an anniversary, or simply want to surprise your loved one, this Valentine's Heart Cake is the perfect choice. Its charming heart shape symbolizes love and affection, making it an ideal dessert for romantic occasions. The rich chocolate flavor combined with a hint of orange zest adds a unique twist that makes this cake stand out.

Not only is this cake visually stunning, but it also offers a deliciously creamy texture that melts in your mouth. With each slice, you and your special someone will indulge in a symphony of flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and happiness. This cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience!

Perfect for Sharing

This Valentine's Heart Cake is designed for sharing, making it a great centerpiece for celebrations with friends and family. Imagine gathering around the table, serving slices of this delightful cake, and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. The combination of chocolate and fresh strawberries makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.

Additionally, the cake can be easily customized with different toppings or decorations, allowing you to make it uniquely yours. Whether you choose to add whipped cream, edible flowers, or more chocolate shavings, the possibilities are endless. This cake invites creativity and personalization, making it even more special.

Easy Steps to Success

The recipe for the Valentine's Heart Cake is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. With just a few simple steps, you can create a beautiful and delicious cake that looks like it came from a bakery. The ingredients are easy to find, and the process is enjoyable, allowing you to spend quality time in the kitchen.

As you follow the steps, you'll find that the aroma of chocolate fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere. This cake not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a sense of accomplishment. Baking together with a partner can be a fun and intimate activity, enhancing the romance of the occasion.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start.

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Icing

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Decoration

Fresh strawberries
Chocolate shavings

Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make your heart cake.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased heart-shaped cake pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Icing

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the icing evenly over the top and sides. Decorate with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings.

Enjoy your beautiful Valentines Heart Cake with your loved one!

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To ensure your Valentine's Heart Cake turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you get precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the cake's rise and texture.

When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense cake. Instead, mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture. Remember to allow the cake to cool completely before icing, as warm cake can cause the icing to melt and slide off.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of elegance, serve the Valentine's Heart Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The coolness of the ice cream complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully, creating a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Consider pairing the cake with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne to elevate the celebration. The bubbles of the drink add a festive touch, making your dessert experience even more special. Don't forget to garnish each slice with fresh strawberries for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it sit at room temperature before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different shape pan?

Yes, you can use a round or square pan; just adjust the baking time as necessary.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

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

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.