Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Oven Collection

I love creating desserts that not only look beautiful but taste divine, and this Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze is a perfect example. With its rich vanilla flavor and delightful berry topping, it's a treat that makes my heart skip a beat. I love how simple it is to prepare yet impressive enough to steal the show at any gathering. The vibrant berry glaze adds a delicious, tangy contrast to the sweet cake, making it a standout dessert that will keep you coming back for more.

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:01:35.068Z

When I first experimented with mini heart-shaped cakes, I was amazed at how charming they turned out. The small size makes them perfect for sharing, and the berry glaze adds a vibrant pop of color that's irresistible. I found that baking these cakes in heart-shaped molds gives them a lovely shape and ensures the glaze beautifully adheres to the top.

To elevate the flavor, I infused the cake batter with a hint of almond extract, which pairs perfectly with the berries. A quick tip: let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the cakes for a smooth finish!

        Why You'll Love This Mini Heart Cake
        Charming heart shapes that are perfect for occasions
Delicious berry glaze that adds a fresh twist
Easy to personalize with different flavors or toppings

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in the Mini Heart Cake plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. The use of all-purpose flour provides structure while ensuring the cake remains light and tender. The combination of butter and sugar creates a base that, when creamed together, incorporates air for a fluffy texture. When selecting your eggs, choose large ones for consistent moisture and fat content, which helps yield a rich mouthfeel.

In the berry glaze, the balance between sweetness and tartness is vital. Mixed berries, whether fresh or frozen, contribute natural sugars and acidity, enhancing the cake's overall flavor. For a more pronounced zest, you can experiment with different acids, such as orange or lime juice, which can also provide a unique twist to the glaze. Just remember that the sugar content may need adjustment depending on the sweetness of your chosen berries.

Achieving Perfect Cakes

Baking times can vary based on your oven type and the precise shape of the molds used. To prevent underbaking or overbaking, I recommend checking the cakes a few minutes before the 20-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. If it comes out wet, continue baking and check every additional minute. Watch for the tops to be lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed.

When greasing your heart-shaped molds, consider using a combination of butter and flour or parchment paper to ensure easy release without damaging the shape. Allow the cakes to cool as per the instructions; this resting time is essential for the flavors to meld and can prevent them from crumbling during removal. If you notice any sticking, gently run a small knife around the edges before inverting.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Berry Glaze

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease heart-shaped cake molds well.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Fill Molds and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared heart molds, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Berry Glaze

While the cakes are baking, blend the mixed berries, powdered sugar, and lemon juice in a blender until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh to remove seeds, if desired.

Cool and Glaze the Cakes

Once the cakes are done, let them cool in the molds for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, pour the berry glaze over the top of each cake.

Enjoy your mini heart cakes with friends and loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the batter or using different berries in the glaze. Fresh is best, but frozen berries work too if you're in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Heart Cakes are perfect for a romantic dinner, or as a sweet surprise for a celebration. Serve them on individual plates to highlight their charming shape. To elevate the dessert further, consider accompanying the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess. Fresh mint leaves can offer a refreshing contrast and will enhance the presentation beautifully.

Presentation is key with these delightful treats. Dusting the tops with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar can give them an elegant finish, especially if served at gatherings or special events. Arranging them on a decorative platter and garnishing with additional fresh berries can create a stunning visual appeal that complements their flavors.

Storing and Making Ahead

If you plan to make these cakes ahead of time, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember that the berry glaze is best made fresh to retain its vibrant color and flavor, so add it just before serving for the best results.

For freezing, wrap each cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and re-glaze before serving. This makes it easy to prepare for future celebrations while keeping the cakes fresh and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different shape for the cakes?

Absolutely! While heart shapes are lovely for special occasions, you can use any cake mold you have on hand.

→ How can I store leftover cakes?

Store any leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for longer freshness.

→ What if I don't have mixed berries?

You can easily replace the mixed berries with any single type of berry or even use fruit preserves for the glaze.

→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, the cakes freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.