Introduction
This heart-shaped cake is not only a delightful treat for special occasions but also a symbol of love and affection. Perfect for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or any celebration, this cake is both visually appealing and delicious. The recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a beautifully soft and moist cake that will surely impress your loved ones.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For this heart-shaped cake, you will need the following ingredients:
– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Sugar: 1 ½ cups
– Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
– Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: ½ teaspoon
– Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened
– Eggs: 3 large
– Milk: 1 cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon
– Cocoa powder (for chocolate variation): ½ cup
Prep Time
The preparation time for this heart-shaped cake is approximately 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing them together to create a smooth batter.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cake requires about 30-35 minutes to bake in the oven. Therefore, the total time to make this heart-shaped cake is roughly 1 hour. This recipe yields one heart-shaped cake, which typically serves around 8-10 people, depending on portion sizes.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two heart-shaped cake pans.
In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract.
In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
Baking the Cake
Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared heart-shaped cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Mix until well combined.
Add milk and vanilla extract, then beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, level the tops if necessary. Place one cake layer onto a serving plate.
Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top of the first.
Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.
Decorating the Cake
Decorate the cake as desired with sprinkles, fruits, or other decorations.
You can also pipe additional frosting onto the cake for a more decorative look.
Notes
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Cake Flour Substitution
You may substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter cake texture.
Flavor Variations
Consider adding cocoa powder for a chocolate cake or citrus zest for a fresh flavor twist.
