Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can't get enough of this Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze! Whether it's for a special occasion or just a sweet treat on a Friday night, these mini cakes add a touch of joy to any moment. The combination of fluffy vanilla cake with a tangy berry glaze creates a delightful contrast in flavors that keeps me coming back for more. Plus, they’re the perfect size for sharing or indulging solo, making each bite feel special. Trust me, it's a recipe you'll want to have in your back pocket!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:46:16.099Z

When I first made this Mini Heart Cake with Berry Glaze, I was amazed by how simple yet elegant it turned out. The heart shape adds a romantic touch, making it perfect for anniversaries or Valentine’s Day. I carefully selected fresh berries for the glaze to ensure the flavor was vibrant and natural, which made all the difference!

Another tip I found important was to let the cakes cool completely before adding the glaze. This ensures that the glaze adheres perfectly, creating a gorgeous finish. Trust me, once you taste the fluffy vanilla combined with the fruity glaze, you'll want to serve it at every gathering!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Cute heart shape that’s perfect for any occasion
Light and fluffy texture complemented by a fruity glaze
Quick to prepare, ideal for both seasoned bakers and beginners

      

Ingredient Insights

The heart of the Mini Heart Cake lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. Using high-quality all-purpose flour will yield a light and airy texture, while granulated sugar plays a crucial role in incorporating air into the batter during mixing. It's essential to soften the butter beforehand, as this allows for easier blending and helps to achieve that fluffy consistency. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute the butter with a neutral oil, but the flavor might be slightly less rich.

Milk also plays a vital role in the cake's tender crumb. Opt for whole milk for the best results, as it contributes creaminess. However, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk can work well, just be sure to select unsweetened varieties to maintain the balance of flavors.

Baking Tips and Techniques

When baking your mini cakes, be sure to preheat your oven thoroughly to exactly 350°F (175°C). An oven thermometer can help you ensure the temperature is just right. Overbaking can lead to dry cakes, so start checking for doneness around the 18-minute mark. Look for golden edges and a toothpick that comes out clean from the center. If you notice that your cakes are doming, it may indicate that the batter was overmixed, which could result in a denser texture than desired.

After baking, allow your mini cakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period will help the cakes maintain their shape. As for the berry glaze, achieving the right consistency is key. If it appears too thick, add a bit of water or lemon juice to thin it out, and if it’s too runny, a sprinkle of powdered sugar can help bind it together.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your heart-shaped delights:

For the Cake

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

For the Berry Glaze

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake and decorate your mini cakes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini heart cake pan.

Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add the softened butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, filling each heart cavity about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Berry Glaze

While the cakes are baking, blend your mixed berries, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. Strain through a sieve to remove seeds if desired.

Glaze the Cakes

Once the cakes have cooled completely, carefully remove them from the pan and drizzle the berry glaze over the top. Serve and enjoy!

Enjoy your delightful mini treats!

Pro Tips

For a smoother glaze, use a food processor to blend the berries. You can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Customize Your Glaze

While the mixed berry glaze is delicious, feel free to experiment with different fruit combinations. Instead of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, you could try cherries or blackberries, depending on your preference or what’s in season. Just keep in mind that sweeter fruits may require less powdered sugar, so taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.

In addition to fruit, consider adding a splash of extract such as almond or vanilla to your glaze for added depth of flavor. Just be cautious with the amount, so it doesn't overwhelm the fruitiness. If you're feeling adventurous, a touch of balsamic reduction can also add a nuanced sweetness to the glaze.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Mini Heart Cakes store wonderfully! Once glazed, they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unglazed cakes. Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they will stay fresh for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before applying the glaze.

If you're looking to prepare for an event, consider making the cakes a day in advance. Just hold off on glazing them until you're ready to serve. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as the cakes settle overnight. Plus, they'll look fresh and inviting when you apply the glaze right before serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries for the glaze?

Yes, frozen berries work well too! Just thaw and drain them before blending.

→ How do I store leftover cakes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What other flavors can I add to the cake?

Try adding lemon or almond extract for a different flavor profile!