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: 12 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup strawberry jam

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

I absolutely love making these mini heart cakes, especially when I want to add a personal touch to any celebration. The combination of moist cake with a luscious strawberry jam center elevates this treat to another level of delight. Perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions, these little cakes are easy to whip up and speedily baked. Plus, the heart shape makes them extra adorable! Join me in creating these sweet indulgences that never fail to impress.

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:38:34.829Z

When I first tried making these mini heart cakes, I was amazed at how simple yet impactful they turned out. The technique of creating an inner jam center made all the difference in the explosion of flavors. I realized that using high-quality strawberry jam not only added sweetness but also a refreshing tartness that balanced the richness of the cake.

I recommend letting the cakes cool completely before adding the jam. This ensures that the jam maintains its vibrant flavor and doesn’t melt into the cake. Trust me, it's worth the wait for that perfect bite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable mini heart shape perfect for sharing
Deliciously sweet strawberry jam center
Ideal for romantic gestures or special celebrations

      

The Heart of the Matter: Key Techniques

Achieving the perfect mini heart cakes hinges on the creaming process. This step is vital for incorporating air into the butter and sugar mixture, which aids in the cakes' rise. Aim for a light, fluffy texture after mixing; about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed should suffice. Be cautious not to over-mix the batter once you add the dry ingredients—mix until just combined to maintain tenderness in the final product.

When you're filling the mini heart pans, it’s essential to not overfill them. Filling each one about halfway allows the batter to rise without spilling over. To create that delightful jam center, drop the jam in the middle but avoid letting it touch the edges of the pan—this prevents it from burning during baking. If the jam is too thick, a gentle warm-up in the microwave for a few seconds can help it spread more easily.

Ingredient Insights: Making Substitutions

The foundation of this mini heart cake relies on all-purpose flour, but if you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check for xanthan gum in the blend, as it helps provide structure. For dairy-free needs, replace the butter with a vegan alternative and use unsweetened applesauce or flax eggs as a binder—this maintains moisture without sacrificing flavor.

While strawberry jam is the star of this recipe, feel free to swap in other fruit preserves like raspberry or peach for a different twist. For a grown-up variation, consider infusing the batter with a splash of almond extract alongside the vanilla, which complements the fruity jam beautifully. Just remember to adjust the amount, starting with half the suggested quantity, to ensure it doesn’t overpower the flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Mini Heart Cake Ingredients

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

Now that you have your ingredients, let's get baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your mini heart cakes:

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Batter

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

Fill the Pans

Spoon the batter into the prepared mini heart pans, filling them about halfway.

Add Strawberry Jam

Add a small teaspoon of strawberry jam in the center of each cake batter.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cakes comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Your mini heart cakes are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a fun presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These mini heart cakes can be made a day in advance, making them a perfect option for busy schedules. After baking, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to a month—just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

To reinvigorate your cakes after freezing, consider warming them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will help restore their softness and bring out the delightful aroma of the vanilla and buttery flavors. Just be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants a rubbery cake!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving these mini heart cakes can be as playful as their shape. Consider dusting them with a light coating of powdered sugar for a charming finish. For added elegance, top with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, paired beautifully with fresh strawberries on the side. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of edible glitter can elevate presentation for special occasions.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with filling variations. Instead of jam, try using a chocolate ganache or lemon curd as a center. You could also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a cozy twist. Each variation maintains the heart shape's fun appeal while allowing you to explore new flavor profiles, perfect for any gathering or celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other flavors of jam?

Absolutely! Any fruit jam or preserve can be substituted based on your preference.

→ How do I avoid the jam from running out during baking?

Make sure to add the jam right before baking and don't overfill the cake pans.

→ Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature.

→ What can I serve with these mini cakes?

They pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.