Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center
Highlighted under: Oven Meals
I absolutely love making these Mini Heart Cakes, especially for special occasions. They are not only adorable but also bursting with flavor thanks to the surprise strawberry jam center. Making these heart-shaped delights is a joyful experience, and I find that the combination of soft cake and fruity filling really hits the spot. The recipe is straightforward and perfect for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because, these cakes will surely bring smiles all around!
When I first attempted making heart-shaped cakes, I wasn’t sure how they would turn out. The idea of a delicious jam-filled center was so enticing that I couldn’t resist. Each bite delivered a wonderful surprise, blending the sweetness of the strawberry jam with the moistness of the cake. It was a hit at my last family gathering!
To make sure the cakes are perfectly moist, I recommend not overmixing the batter. This technique allows the cake to rise beautifully and ensures a tender texture. Trust me, the effort is well worth those jubilant smiles when everyone takes their first bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Adorable heart shape perfect for gifting
- Surprise strawberry jam center adds a burst of flavor
- Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Baking Tips for Perfect Mini Heart Cakes
When making these Mini Heart Cakes, measuring your ingredients accurately is key to achieving the right texture. For the flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing, which could lead to dry cakes. Additionally, ensuring your butter is softened to room temperature will help create that light and fluffy cream with sugar, allowing air to be incorporated effectively for a tender crumb.
Another useful tip is to use room temperature eggs and milk. This can help the batter emulsify better, resulting in a smoother and more consistent mixture. If you forget to take out your eggs ahead of time, submerge them in warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to a suitable temperature quickly.
Flavor Variations and Substitutions
While the strawberry jam center is delightfully fruity, you can easily customize this recipe by substituting with your favorite jams or preserves. Raspberry, apricot, or even a citrus curd would add a zesty twist. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using a fruit puree or a sugar-free jam to lower the sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
For a vegan variation, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk. Be sure to choose a vegan butter alternative to maintain the right texture. This way, you can enjoy these adorable cakes while accommodating a variety of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Mini Heart Cakes.
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- ½ cup strawberry jam
For Decoration
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh strawberries (optional)
Make sure to have your baking tools ready as well!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your delicious Mini Heart Cakes.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your heart-shaped cake molds.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fill Molds
Spoon the batter into the heart molds up to halfway. Add a spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each and then top with more batter.
Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before removing from molds.
Decorate
Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh strawberries if desired.
Enjoy your delightful creations with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the batter or using different flavors of jam for the filling.
Layering Techniques
Layering is essential for an appealing presentation. Once the cakes have cooled, consider slicing them in half horizontally. This not only allows for more filling but also enhances the cake's visual appeal. You can add a layer of fresh strawberries or a bit of whipped cream nestled alongside the strawberry jam for a wonderful textural contrast.
To ensure even layering, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. This technique prevents crumbling. If you're concerned about the cakes breaking, consider using a cake leveler for precision and ease.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These Mini Heart Cakes can be made in advance, making them excellent for stress-free baking. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to make them even further ahead, freeze the unfilled cakes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a zip-tight freezer bag; they'll last in the freezer for up to a month.
When you’re ready to serve, simply defrost the cakes at room temperature for a couple of hours and fill them with strawberry jam before decorating. This method allows you to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cakes in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just add the powdered sugar before serving.
→ Can I use other types of jam?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like raspberry or peach.
→ How can I ensure my cakes don’t stick to the pan?
Make sure to grease the molds well, and you can also dust them with a little flour before pouring in the batter.
→ What if I don’t have heart-shaped molds?
You can use a regular muffin tin and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center
I absolutely love making these Mini Heart Cakes, especially for special occasions. They are not only adorable but also bursting with flavor thanks to the surprise strawberry jam center. Making these heart-shaped delights is a joyful experience, and I find that the combination of soft cake and fruity filling really hits the spot. The recipe is straightforward and perfect for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because, these cakes will surely bring smiles all around!
Created by: Yvette Harrington
Recipe Type: Oven Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- ½ cup strawberry jam
For Decoration
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh strawberries (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your heart-shaped cake molds.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
Gradually add the dry mixture and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the heart molds up to halfway. Add a spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each and then top with more batter.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before removing from molds.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh strawberries if desired.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the batter or using different flavors of jam for the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g