Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup strawberry jam

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I've always loved the idea of mini desserts that pack a punch, both in flavor and presentation. When I decided to make these Mini Heart Cakes, I wanted something that would not only be visually appealing but also deliciously memorable. The combination of light vanilla cake with a strawberry jam center is irresistible. Each bite is a delightful surprise, and these cakes are perfect for special occasions or just to brighten up a regular day. Trust me; your loved ones will adore these charming little treats!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:33:34.880Z

One of my favorite discoveries while baking these mini heart cakes was how replacing some of the sugar with strawberry jam created a deliciously fruity center. It added both moisture and sweetness, making every cake a delightful surprise. I recommend using high-quality jam for the best flavor.

As I experimented with the baking time, I found that keeping them slightly underbaked allowed for a soft and tender crumb, which perfectly complements the jam. These cakes are not just sweet treats; they're heartfelt gifts that anyone can appreciate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Adorable heart shape perfect for gifting and celebrations
Delicious strawberry center that adds a touch of surprise
Light and fluffy texture that will have everyone coming back for more

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Mini Heart Cakes lies in the combination of all-purpose flour and sugar, which provides structure and sweetness. The butter not only adds moisture but helps create a tender crumb when creamed with sugar. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for better incorporation. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a lighter cake, but this may alter the rich flavor slightly.

Eggs play a crucial role in this recipe, acting as binders and contributing to the cake's volume. Be sure to use large eggs as specified; the size affects the moisture and structure of the cake. If you're looking for an egg-free variation, consider using flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute for each egg, which can provide a binding effect without compromising texture.

Perfecting the Baking Process

When filling the heart-shaped pans, ensure not to overfill them. Filling them about two-thirds full allows the cakes enough room to rise beautifully without spilling over. For an even bake, it's helpful to rotate the pans halfway through the baking time. Keep an eye on the cakes around the 20-minute mark; look for a golden edge and a toothpick inserted into the center coming out clean, which indicates they are done.

Cooling the cakes in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack prevents them from crumbling. This allows the structure to set while they cool slightly. If you find your cakes are sticking to the pans, run a small knife around the edges before inverting them. Be patient, as letting them cool fully enhances the flavors and makes them easier to handle when decorating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start baking:

For the Mini Heart Cakes

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

Make sure to have everything measured out for an easier baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for baking the perfect mini heart cakes:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your mini heart-shaped cake pans by greasing and flouring them.

Mix the batter

In a 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 vanilla extract.

Combine dry ingredients

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

Fill the pans

Pour a small amount of batter into each prepared heart-shaped pan, just enough to cover the bottom. Add a small spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each, then top with more batter until the pans are about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream. Enjoy the delightful combination of cake and fruit jam!

Make sure to let the cakes cool completely before serving to enhance the flavor!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a slice of fresh strawberry on top before serving for extra flavor and decoration.

Decorating Your Mini Cakes

Once your cakes have cooled, dusting them with powdered sugar can add a beautiful finish without overwhelming sweetness. For a more indulgent touch, consider a light drizzle of whipped cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream topped with strawberries. It not only enhances the cake's aesthetic but also adds a creamy layer that pairs well with the strawberry jam center.

For an extra flair, you could also experiment with different toppings like chocolate ganache or a simple glaze. A ganache made from dark chocolate and cream can provide a rich contrast to the sweet strawberry jam, while a citrus glaze can offer a refreshing twist. Feel free to customize the decor based on your occasion and your guests' tastes!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Mini Heart Cakes can be made in advance, making them a great option for busy days. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months; just remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

If you want to enjoy these cakes fresh from the oven regularly, consider baking a larger batch and freezing them without the jam filling. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and fill them with freshly heated strawberry jam. This way, you can replicate the delightful surprise of the jam center whenever you please!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different jam instead of strawberry?

Absolutely! Any flavor of fruit jam or preserve would work beautifully.

→ How do I store these mini cakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can bake these mini heart cakes one day ahead. Just frost or decorate them right before serving.

→ What's the best way to get them out of the pan?

Let the cakes cool for a few minutes in the pan, then gently run a knife around the edges before inverting them onto a wire rack.