Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 200g almond flour; 100g all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 150g sugar; 3 large eggs; 100g unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; Whipped cream; Fresh berries (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

When it comes to celebrating special moments, I love whipping up this adorable Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge. Its delightful shape and moist texture make it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or simply a sweet surprise for loved ones. With the fragrance of almonds and a hint of sweetness, this cake always brings a smile to my face. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! Join me as I share this lovely recipe that's sure to impress everyone at your table.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:34:34.724Z

As I was experimenting with different cake recipes, I stumbled upon the idea of an almond sponge cake shaped like hearts. I instantly fell in love with the concept, and after a bit of tweaking, I found the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The use of almond flour not only gives it a unique taste but also keeps the cake light and fluffy. I can't wait for you to try it!

When baking this heart-shaped cake, I discovered a little trick - letting the batter rest for a few minutes before baking creates a fluffier sponge! This little tip makes all the difference, so make sure not to skip it. Whether you want to celebrate love or just enjoy a fun dessert, this cake will definitely steal the show!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Beautiful heart shape that adds a personal touch
Sweet almond flavor combined with a soft crumb
Perfect for any gathering or romantic dinner

      

Ingredients and Their Importance

The choice of almond flour in this recipe is essential for achieving that distinct nutty flavor and moist texture that makes the Mini Heart Cake special. Almond flour not only enhances the taste but also contributes to a gluten-free option, which is great for those with gluten sensitivities. If you don’t have almond flour on hand, you can blend whole almonds into a fine meal as a substitute, but be mindful that this may slightly change the texture.

Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your cake, ensuring the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the eggs shine through. If you want a dairy-free option, vegetable oil or dairy-free margarine can be good substitutes. Just use the same weight measurement as the melted butter. This can help keep the cake moist while catering to different dietary preferences.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking, the technique of creaming butter and sugar is crucial for incorporating air into the batter. This step will give your cake a light, fluffy texture. Ensure your butter is at room temperature; if it's too cold, it won't trap air effectively. To check consistency, you should see a pale mixture that has visibly expanded in volume, which indicates you're on the right track.

Always check your cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center shortly after the minimum baking time of 25 minutes. If it comes out with wet batter, give it another 3–5 minutes, but keep an eye on the color. The edges should be golden, and the top should spring back to the touch. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry cake that lacks the intended moistness.

Ingredients

For the Cake

200g almond flour
100g all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
150g sugar
3 large eggs
100g unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For the Decoration

Whipped cream
Fresh berries (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Prepare Your Cake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your heart-shaped cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the Cake Cool

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Decorate

Once cooled, decorate with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a few drops of almond extract to enhance the almond taste.

Cooling and Storage

After removing the Mini Heart Cake from the oven, it's important to let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows the cake to firm up slightly, avoiding cracks when you invert it. If you attempt to move it too early, it may break apart, so patience is key during this cooling phase.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate the cake for up to a week, but keep in mind that refrigeration can dry out the texture. For longer storage, consider wrapping slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Decoration Ideas and Customization

To elevate the visual appeal of your Mini Heart Cake, you can experiment with different toppings. Besides whipped cream and fresh berries, consider using a fruit glaze made from pureed strawberries or raspberries. This adds not only flavor but also a stunning glossy finish that looks beautiful. A layer of chocolate ganache can add richness for chocolate lovers, elevating the cake's indulgence.

Feel free to customize each cake for different occasions. For example, adding food coloring to the whipped cream can match any theme or celebration. You could also incorporate a layer of jam between the cake layers if you decide to stack them, introducing an unexpected burst of fruitiness. When presented creatively, this heart-shaped cake can be an unforgettable centerpiece.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ What can I use for decoration instead of whipped cream?

You could use cream cheese frosting or even a light glaze for a different flavor.