Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup strawberry jam; Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting; Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making these Mini Heart Cakes whenever a special occasion arises. Their charming shape and delightful strawberry jam center bring a smile to everyone's face. Each bite is a lovely balance of sweet cake and fruity tang, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones. The best part is that they’re simple to whip up, allowing me to pour my creativity into the decorations. Whether it's for a birthday or a romantic dinner, these little cakes add a touch of sweetness that makes every moment memorable.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:42:34.841Z

As I crafted these Mini Heart Cakes, I experimented with different flavors for the jam filling. The strawberry jam was the star, providing a sweet burst that perfectly complemented the lightness of the cake. I learned that using fresh strawberries can greatly enhance the flavor, so I’ll never skip that step again!

One of my favorite tips for achieving fluffy cakes is to ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This small change can make a huge difference in texture, contributing to that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. Now I can’t imagine making these cakes any other way!

        Why You'll Love These Cakes
        Adorable heart shape that brings joy to any gathering
Bursting with strawberry flavor that delights the senses
Perfectly moist and fluffy, ideal for any celebration

      

Creating the Perfect Batter

When preparing the batter for your Mini Heart Cakes, it's essential to blend the ingredients well for the right texture. Creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy aerates your batter, leading to a moist cake. If the mixture doesn't turn fluffy after a few minutes of mixing, it may require a bit more time. Remember, overmixing can toughen the cake, so stop mixing once the dry ingredients are just incorporated.

The role of eggs in this batter is crucial. They not only provide richness but also act as a binding agent. Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature, as this helps them incorporate better into the batter and contributes to a lighter cake. You can warm cold eggs by placing them in a bowl of warm water for five minutes before adding them.

Baking Tips for Success

Preheating your oven to the correct temperature is vital. An oven that is too hot can cause the cakes to rise too quickly, resulting in cracks, while an oven that is not hot enough may lead to dense cakes. Use an oven thermometer to check calibration if you suspect yours isn’t accurate. This can make a significant difference when aiming for that perfect fluffy texture.

After baking, allow the cakes to cool for a short time in their molds for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step not only avoids crumbling but also allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess. If you encounter any sticking, a gentle run around the edges with a small offset spatula can help release them without damaging the hearts.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful mini cakes:

For the Mini Cakes

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

For the Strawberry Jam Center

1/2 cup strawberry jam
Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)

For the Decoration

Powdered sugar for dusting
Whipped cream (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured out before you begin to ensure a smooth baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect baking experience:

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini heart-shaped molds. Pour the batter into the molds, filling each about halfway. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes before removing from the molds.

Add the Strawberry Jam

Once the cakes are cool, use a small knife to cut a hole in the center of each mini cake. Fill each cavity with strawberry jam, ensuring it's heaped slightly for a delicious surprise.

Decorate and Serve

Dust the cakes with powdered sugar and top with fresh strawberries and whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the smiles they bring!

Enjoy these charming cakes with your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try using homemade strawberry sauce instead of jam. Also, remember that the smaller the cakes, the quicker they bake, so keep an eye on them in the oven!

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Mini Heart Cakes can be made ahead of time, which is a great advantage for any celebration. Once baked and fully cooled, they can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. Just ensure to seal them well to prevent freezer burn.

If frozen, allow the cakes to thaw at room temperature about an hour before serving. For the best flavor and texture, avoid adding the strawberry jam filling until just before serving to keep the cakes from becoming soggy.

Creative Variations

While strawberry jam is a delightful filling, consider experimenting with other flavors. Raspberry preserves, lemon curd, or even chocolate ganache can provide delicious alternatives. Each filling will alter the taste profile, making your Mini Heart Cakes versatile for various occasions and preferences.

For a more sophisticated touch, try infusing your batter with citrus zest, such as orange or lemon. This simple addition can brighten the flavors of your cake and complement the fillings beautifully. Adjusting the sugar slightly can help balance the tartness of your jam or filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of jams for the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam for different flavors.

→ How long can I store these mini cakes?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze the mini cakes?

Yes! Bake the cakes, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

→ What can I do if I don't have heart-shaped molds?

You can use regular muffin tins or any small round cake pans. Just adjust the baking time as necessary.