Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Sponge

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Sponge
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Sponge for special occasions. The process is both delightful and gratifying, resulting in charming little cakes that truly steal the show. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the airy, moist texture creates a dessert that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Each bite offers a heavenly experience, making it perfect for celebrations or as a personal treat. It's a fun recipe that I enjoy experimenting with, and one that never fails to impress my guests.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:58:11.577Z

When I first tried baking a heart-shaped cake, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and enjoyable it was. The chocolate sponge is light yet decadent, and the addition of a simple ganache elevates it. I learned that letting the cake cool completely before icing it prevents melting, ensuring a beautiful finish. This attention to detail makes all the difference!

One of my fondest memories is making this cake for my friend's birthday. The joy on her face when she saw the mini heart cakes made all the effort worthwhile. Using high-quality cocoa powder enhances the flavor significantly, so I recommend splurging a bit on that ingredient!

        Why You Will 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

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in the texture and flavor of your Mini Heart Cake. For instance, using high-quality cocoa powder is essential for achieving a rich, deep chocolate flavor. Brands like Dutch-processed cocoa provide a smoother taste compare to regular cocoa powder. Additionally, opting for unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content more precisely, enhancing the overall sweetness of the cake without an overpowering salty taste.

The use of eggs not only helps bind the ingredients together but also contributes to the cake's fluffy texture. When incorporating eggs, be sure to bring them to room temperature beforehand; this will help create a smoother batter and allow for better aeration. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk, and replace the butter with coconut oil for a unique flavor twist.

Techniques for a Flawless Bake

When baking your Mini Heart Cakes, it’s vital to monitor the oven temperature carefully. Every oven heats differently, so it’s wise to rotate your cake pans halfway through the baking time. This ensures even cooking without any one side becoming overly dry or undercooked. Aim for a toothpick to come out clean based on testing in the center of the thickest part of the cake, as this will confirm doneness without compromising moisture.

Cooling your cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes is essential to allow them to firm up slightly, making them easier to release. Don’t rush this step; skipping it could result in broken or crumbled cakes. After transferring to a wire rack, let them cool completely before adding ganache, as the warmth can cause the ganache to melt too quickly, resulting in a sloppy top.

Serving and Storing Your Heart Cake

To create a visually stunning presentation, consider garnishing your Mini Heart Cake with fresh orange zest or chocolate shavings. These add a delightful contrast and enhance the overall chocolate flavor while providing a pop of color. Serving each slice alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this dessert for a more indulgent experience.

If you have any leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, it can also be placed in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that the texture may change; the sponge might become denser. If you wish to freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best flavor retention.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delightful mini heart cakes:

For the Chocolate Sponge

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

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake and decorate your mini heart cakes:

Prepare the Chocolate Sponge

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour heart-shaped cake pans. In a bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until fully combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until smooth and well combined. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring over the cooled cakes.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, carefully remove them from the pans. Place one heart layer on a serving plate and cover the top with ganache. Add the second layer and pour more ganache on top, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.

Enjoy your delicious creation with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a citrus twist, consider adding a bit of orange zest to the batter. This adds a refreshing flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Tips for Ganache Perfection

When preparing the ganache, ensure that the heavy cream is heated just until boiling; this helps to melt the chocolate without scorching it. Once the chocolate has been added, the mixture should be stirred until it achieves a glossy, smooth consistency. Be patient during this process; lumps can form if the chocolate isn't given enough time to fully incorporate with the cream.

For added depth of flavor, consider infusing the cream with flavors like espresso or a splash of orange liqueur while heating. Simply strain the mixture before adding the chocolate, and you'll have a ganache that's truly remarkable. Should your ganache appear too thick after cooling, you can gently reheat it for a few seconds and stir until it reaches the desired pourable consistency.

Creating Custom Variations

Want to personalize your Mini Heart Cake? Incorporate some fun flavors into the batter, such as almond or hazelnut extract, to complement the chocolate. Alternatively, mix in some mini chocolate chips or a swirl of raspberry puree for a fruity contrast. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—experiment with various flavor profiles to match the occasion or personal preference.

Don't hesitate to substitute the ganache with a lighter frosting like whipped cream cheese or a berry compote for a different sort of indulgence. These options can offer a fresh taste when paired with the dense chocolate sponge, providing an exciting balance for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different shape for the cake?

Absolutely! You can use round or square pans instead of heart-shaped, just adjust the baking time as needed.

→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it's a blend meant for baking for the best results.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Decorate them just before serving for the best taste.

→ What type of chocolate works best for the ganache?

Dark chocolate is perfect for a rich flavor. Aim for at least 60% cocoa for a balanced taste.