Mini Heart Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first set out to make this Mini Heart Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, I was delighted by the idea of creating something so whimsical yet simple. The combination of the moist cake with the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting was a match made in heaven. Each bite is a sweet reminder of the joy in little things. This cake is perfect for any occasion, and it not only looks beautiful but is also incredibly satisfying. I can't wait for you to fall in love with it as I have!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:01:24.513Z

As I baked this Mini Heart Cake, I experimented with the proportions of flour and sugar to achieve a light and fluffy texture that perfectly complements the frosting. I found that using room-temperature ingredients makes a significant difference in the overall blend of flavors. Beating the butter and sugar together thoroughly created those beautiful air pockets, leading to a lighter cake.

The cream cheese frosting was a joy to whip up. By adding a bit of vanilla extract, I brought out the flavors even more, making every nibble irresistible. Don't forget to chill the frosting for a bit; it spreads beautifully when it's cooler!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich cream cheese flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweet cake
Fun and festive mini size perfect for sharing
Easy to decorate for any occasion with a touch of creativity

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Mini Heart Cake. The all-purpose flour gives it structure, while the sugar contributes sweetness and moisture. Unsalted butter not only enriches the cake but also helps it bake evenly. Using room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, ensures they blend together smoothly, resulting in a light, fluffy batter. If you're short on time, consider softening your butter in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it.

The inclusion of baking powder and baking soda helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that airy texture everyone loves. Make sure to check the expiration dates on your leavening agents for the best results. A common mistake is to use old baking powder or soda, which may not activate properly, leading to a dense cake. For those watching their diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, though it may slightly alter the texture.

Frosting Fundamentals

Achieving the right consistency in cream cheese frosting is essential for ease of spreading and for aesthetic appeal. Start by thoroughly beating the softened cream cheese and butter together, ensuring no lumps remain. Gradually incorporating the powdered sugar helps avoid a cloud of dust and allows for better control over the texture. If your frosting feels too thick, don't hesitate to add milk in small increments. Aim for a spreadable consistency that holds its shape but is not so thin that it slides off the cake.

For an extra flavor dimension, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to the frosting. This can enhance the cream cheese flavor, providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake. If you're looking for a variation, a touch of cocoa powder can transform your frosting into a chocolate delight, perfect for pairing with the cake's subtle sweetness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Mini Heart Cake

For the Cake

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)

Additional Supplies

Heart-shaped cake pan

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another large bowl, cream the butter until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and milk, then gradually add the dry ingredients until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Grease and flour a heart-shaped cake pan. Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing it out. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Decorate the Cake

Once the cake is fully cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. You can use a knife or a spatula to create decorative swirls. Feel free to add sprinkles or edible decorations to enhance the look.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into portions and serve. Enjoy with friends, family, or just a special treat for yourself!

This cake is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a zest of lemon or orange to the frosting. This brings a fresh, citrus tone that pairs beautifully with cream cheese.

Storage and Make-Ahead

This Mini Heart Cake can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules. Once baked and cooled, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the unfrosted cake. Place it in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw it at room temperature and frost as desired.

For the cream cheese frosting, make it up to two days in advance, stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before spreading, as it may thicken when chilled. If you prefer room temperature frosting, allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes prior to decorating your cake.

Decorating Ideas

The fun part about this Mini Heart Cake is the decorating! While a smooth layer of frosting looks elegant, you can also experiment with different piping techniques using a star tip for a more textured finish. Adding colorful sprinkles or edible glitter can elevate the cake's charm, making it suitable for any celebration or everyday treat. For a more rustic look, use a spatula to create waves in the frosting, resembling fluffy clouds.

You can also enhance the flavor by adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cake and frosting. Fresh strawberries or raspberries work beautifully and can mirror the cake's heart shape, providing a delightful tart contrast to the sweet cream cheese frosting. If you're feeling adventurous, consider topping the cake with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a light, refreshing finish that guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different shaped cake pan?

Yes, you can use any shape you prefer, but baking times may vary. Just ensure the cake is cooked thoroughly.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you want a different flavor or dietary preference.