Valentines Heart Cake Recipe

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your loved ones with this beautifully crafted Valentines Heart Cake. Perfectly moist and rich in flavor, it's an ideal centerpiece for your romantic celebration.

Veronica Miles

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-02T03:22:14.873Z

This Valentines Heart Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. With its vibrant red color and delicate heart shape, it's sure to impress anyone who receives it.

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 Surprise

Imagine the joy on your loved one's face when you present this stunning Valentine's Heart Cake. The heart shape symbolizes love and affection, making it the perfect dessert for this romantic occasion. The rich chocolate flavor combined with a hint of orange zest creates a delightful surprise that will linger in their memory long after the last bite.

Not only does this cake taste divine, but it also looks breathtaking. With its elegant layers and beautiful decorations, it serves as a centerpiece that will impress anyone who lays eyes on it. Whether you’re celebrating a romantic dinner or a special gathering with friends, this cake is sure to elevate the mood and make the day unforgettable.

Baking with Love

Baking this cake is more than just preparing a dessert; it's an act of love. The process of measuring, mixing, and decorating allows you to pour your heart into every step, making the cake even more special. Plus, the aroma of chocolate wafting through your kitchen will create an inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for your celebration.

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Each step is designed to guide you through the process effortlessly. With a little patience and care, you’ll create a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also reflects the love you put into making it.

Perfect Pairings

While this Valentine's Heart Cake is a delightful treat on its own, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to take it to the next level. The creamy textures complement the rich chocolate beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will delight your palate.

For a warm beverage option, serve this cake with a rich cup of hot cocoa or a glass of your favorite dessert wine. These pairings not only enhance the experience but also add a touch of luxury to your celebration, making it feel even more special.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

For Decoration

  • Fresh strawberries, halved
  • Edible flowers (optional)
  • Heart-shaped sprinkles

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the preparation.

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 the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Stir in boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Add salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until you reach a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Decorate

Decorate the top with fresh strawberries, edible flowers, and heart-shaped sprinkles as desired.

Slice and serve to your loved ones for a delightful treat!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), storing your Valentine’s Heart Cake is simple. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it. Just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving to maintain its deliciously moist texture.

Alternatively, you can freeze slices of the cake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and savor the flavors once again.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this Valentine’s Heart Cake is its versatility. Feel free to customize the flavors to suit your taste. For instance, if you or your loved ones prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the cocoa powder with a fruit-flavored cake mix or even a spice cake mix for a unique twist.

Additionally, consider experimenting with the frosting. While the chocolate frosting is decadent, a cream cheese frosting or a citrus-flavored glaze can add a refreshing layer of flavor. You can also switch up the decorations based on your preferences, using different fruits or themed sprinkles to match the occasion.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream would also pair beautifully.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

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

Valentines Heart Cake Recipe

Delight your loved ones with this beautifully crafted Valentines Heart Cake. Perfectly moist and rich in flavor, it's an ideal centerpiece for your romantic celebration.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time55 minutes

Created by: Veronica Miles

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  3. ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  5. 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 2 large eggs
  8. 1 cup whole milk
  9. ½ cup vegetable oil
  10. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  11. 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
  3. ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. ½ teaspoon salt
  5. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  6. 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

For Decoration

  1. Fresh strawberries, halved
  2. Edible flowers (optional)
  3. Heart-shaped sprinkles

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two heart-shaped cake pans. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Stir in boiling water until well combined.

Step 02

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 03

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Add salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until you reach a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Step 04

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 05

Decorate the top with fresh strawberries, edible flowers, and heart-shaped sprinkles as desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g