Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Buttercream

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Buttercream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup strawberry puree; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely love creating little treats that pack a big punch in flavor, and this Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Buttercream is a prime example! It’s the perfect size for a sweet celebration or just to indulge myself after a long day. The fresh strawberries blended into the creamy frosting make each bite a delightful surprise, while the soft cake base holds its shape beautifully. With this recipe, I can bake a flawless mini cake that not only looks adorable but tastes incredible too.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:52:36.670Z

When I first made this Mini Heart Cake, I wanted to impress my friends with something sweet yet simple. The idea of using fresh strawberries in the buttercream was a game-changer! The vibrant color and fruity flavor pair perfectly with the light vanilla cake, creating a dessert that everyone adores.

One of my favorite tips is to incorporate the strawberry puree gently, as this helps maintain that luscious, creamy texture. After mastering this technique, I've made this cake countless times, for everything from birthdays to casual get-togethers, and it never fails to bring smiles!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape that's perfect for gifting
Delightfully creamy strawberry buttercream
Light and fluffy cake that melts in your mouth

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Mini Heart Cake plays a critical role in achieving its delightful texture and flavor. The all-purpose flour provides the structure needed to support the cake, while the granulated sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to a tender crumb. For the best results, measure your flour correctly; spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid an overly dense cake.

The buttermilk in the batter adds moisture and helps create that light, fluffy texture that makes the cake melt in your mouth. It also reacts with the baking soda to create a lift. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing one tablespoon of vinegar with enough milk to make one cup, letting it sit for five minutes before using it.

Perfecting the Frosting

When making the strawberry buttercream, the quality of the strawberry puree significantly affects the flavor. Fresh strawberries provide the best taste, but if they are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained. Purée the strawberries and strain them to remove seeds for a smoother texture, resulting in a more luscious buttercream.

If your frosting is too thick, adding a teaspoon of milk or additional strawberry puree can help achieve the desired consistency. On the other hand, if your frosting is too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar until it's thick enough to hold its shape. This frosting is also great for piping; chilling it briefly before piping can enhance stability for decorative swirls.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand for a smooth baking experience!

For the Mini Heart Cake

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

For the Strawberry Buttercream

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup strawberry puree
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

With your ingredients prepared, you’re ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mini Heart Cake.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk until a smooth batter is formed.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini heart-shaped cake pan and pour the batter into it. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely before frosting.

Make the Strawberry Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the frosting is creamy and well-blended.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, generously spread the strawberry buttercream over the top and sides. You can use a spatula or pipe decorations for an extra touch!

Enjoy every bite of your beautifully crafted Mini Heart Cake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the buttercream. It enhances the strawberry flavor and adds a bright note to the frosting.

Serving Suggestions

This Mini Heart Cake can be an adorable centerpiece for a romantic dinner or a lovely surprise for a friend. Serve slices on decorative plates, perhaps accompanied by extra fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a delightful presentation. You might also consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast in texture and temperature.

For those who enjoy making the cake ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator. Place any leftover cake in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to serve it at a later date, consider freezing the unfrosted cake; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it should remain good for up to a month.

Baking Tips

To ensure even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the cake inside. An oven thermometer can help you monitor the true temperature since many home ovens can be slightly off. As you bake, look for visual cues such as a light golden color around the edges and a springy top. This will also help you avoid overbaking; start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

If you're looking to scale the recipe up, simply double the ingredients for a larger cake or multiple mini heart cakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger cakes may take longer to bake through. For different shapes, you can also use standard round or square cake pans; just remember to adjust your baking time based on pan size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the buttercream?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them before pureeing.

→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the same quantity.

→ What other flavors can I use for the buttercream?

You can try using other fruit purees like raspberry, blueberry, or mango for a different twist!

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.