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 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Valentines Heart Cake Recipe is the perfect treat to celebrate love. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it's sure to impress your special someone.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-04T11:22:15.150Z

This cake combines the rich taste of chocolate with the sweetness of love. Perfect for Valentine's Day or any romantic occasion!

        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 Sweet Symbol of Love

Celebrating love is about creating memorable moments, and what better way to express your feelings than with a beautifully crafted cake? The Valentine's Heart Cake not only looks stunning with its heart shape but also tastes divine, making it a perfect centerpiece for a romantic dinner or a sweet surprise for your loved one. The combination of rich chocolate and a hint of fresh orange zest provides both depth and brightness, making every bite a delicious experience.

This cake serves as a sweet symbol of affection, ideal for anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or any occasion where you want to show someone you care. As you slice into this decadent treat, the creamy frosting and moist cake layers reveal the love that went into making it. It's a great way to share a moment of joy and sweetness with someone special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While the Valentine's Heart Cake is a fantastic choice for romantic celebrations, it's versatile enough to be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or a casual get-together with friends, this cake will undoubtedly delight your guests. Its eye-catching presentation and delicious flavors ensure it stands out on any dessert table.

You can customize the cake with different toppings or decorations to fit the theme of your celebration. Consider adding fresh berries, edible flowers, or even a sprinkle of gold dust for a touch of elegance. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to impress and create lasting memories.

Baking Tips and Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Valentine's Heart Cake, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps in creating a smooth batter that will rise evenly while baking. Additionally, when measuring your flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down, which can lead to a dense cake.

Another pro tip is to avoid opening the oven door too often while baking. This can cause fluctuations in temperature that may affect the cake's rise. Always use a toothpick to check for doneness, and let the cakes cool completely before frosting to ensure that the frosting doesn’t melt. With these simple tips, your cake will turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two heart-shaped cake pans. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until well combined. Gradually stir in boiling water.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream and vanilla, until smooth and fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting on the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Let the cake set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add fresh berries or edible flowers on top of the cake.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Valentine's Heart Cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The coolness of the ice cream juxtaposes beautifully with the rich chocolate flavors of the cake, enhancing the overall dessert experience. You could also serve it with a splash of raspberry sauce for a fruity contrast that complements the cake's sweetness.

For an added touch, garnish each slice with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of orange zest to echo the flavors in the cake. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your dessert but also surprises your palate with bursts of complementary flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly warm climate, refrigerating it may be wise to maintain its freshness. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to bring back its delightful texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of love whenever a craving strikes! Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying for the best flavor and texture.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of baking is the ability to personalize your creation. For the Valentine's Heart Cake, feel free to experiment with flavors in the frosting. Instead of traditional chocolate, try adding a hint of orange or peppermint extract for a unique twist. You can also incorporate different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to cater to different taste preferences.

Additionally, consider adding layers of fruit, like sliced strawberries or raspberries, between the cake layers for a refreshing surprise. This not only elevates the flavor profile but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your cake, making it even more inviting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute.

→ How do I store the leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it on the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with milk or a dairy-free alternative if desired.