Valentines Heart Cake

Name: Valentines Heart Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups 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 raspberry preserves; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Celebrate love with this delightful Valentines Heart Cake, perfect for sharing with that special someone.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-31T14:19:16.647Z

This Valentines Heart Cake is not just a dessert; it's a heartfelt expression of love. With its rich chocolate layers and a hint of raspberry, it’s a treat that will warm the hearts of anyone who shares it.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Decadent chocolate layers that satisfy every sweet tooth
Beautiful heart shape makes it perfect for special occasions
Delicious raspberry filling adds a refreshing twist

      

A Cake for Every Occasion

The Valentines Heart Cake isn't just for Valentine's Day; it can brighten any occasion where love and joy are in the air. Whether it's an anniversary, a birthday, or simply a surprise for someone special, this cake stands out with its gorgeous heart shape and rich flavors. The combination of chocolate and raspberry is a classic pairing that resonates with many, making it a versatile choice for different celebrations.

This cake can also be easily customized to suit various tastes. For those who prefer a different flavor profile, consider swapping out the raspberry filling for strawberry, cherry, or even a tangy lemon curd. The beautiful heart shape ensures that whatever flavor you choose, it will look stunning and be a delightful centerpiece at any gathering.

Tips for Success

Baking a heart-shaped cake can be a fun challenge, but there are a few tips to ensure success. Make sure to properly grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking. Using parchment paper can also be a lifesaver for easy removal. Additionally, when mixing your batter, be careful not to over-mix after adding the flour, as this can lead to a denser cake texture.

For the filling, ensure your heavy cream is cold when whipping, as this helps achieve those perfect stiff peaks. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some fresh raspberries between the layers for added texture and visual appeal. This will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful surprise when cutting into the cake.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving the Valentines Heart Cake, presentation is key. Consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a sophisticated finish. Fresh raspberries or strawberries can also be placed on top or around the base of the cake for a pop of color and a touch of elegance. A dollop of whipped cream alongside each slice can elevate the dessert experience even further.

Pair your cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of sparkling wine to create a romantic atmosphere. Remember, the cake not only serves as a delicious treat but also as a symbol of love and affection, making every bite even sweeter when shared with someone special.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups 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 Filling

1 cup raspberry preserves
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar

For the Frosting

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

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

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

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, then beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Carefully stir in the boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Once the cakes are cool, spread raspberry preserves on top of one layer, then add a layer of whipped cream on top of the preserves. Place the second cake layer on top.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with milk and vanilla, until you reach a smooth consistency.

Frost the Cake

Spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired and serve.

Pro Tips

For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder in the frosting.

Storing Your Cake

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the cake in advance, proper storage is essential for maintaining its freshness. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture of the frosting.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a taste of love whenever you desire, simply thawing the slices at room temperature when you're ready to indulge.

Variations to Try

This Valentines Heart Cake recipe can serve as a foundation for various delicious variations. For a rich twist, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the layers instead of raspberry preserves. This will intensify the chocolate flavor and add a luxurious texture that chocolate lovers will adore.

You can also experiment with different frostings. A cream cheese frosting would complement the cake beautifully, offering a tangy balance to the sweetness. For those who want a lighter alternative, whipped cream can be used for an airy finish that pairs wonderfully with the raspberry filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes and prepare the filling a day in advance. Assemble the cake on the day of serving for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs for a vegan option.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I use a different fruit for the filling?

Absolutely! Strawberry or blueberry preserves would work wonderfully as a filling.