Mini Heart Cake with Raspberry Glaze

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Raspberry Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Inspiration

I recently had the pleasure of baking these delightful Mini Heart Cakes with Raspberry Glaze, and they turned out to be the perfect treat for a special occasion. When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly the batter came together and how beautiful the vibrant glaze looked once drizzled on top. The combination of soft cake and tangy raspberry creates a truly irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress. It's a fun project to undertake, whether as a personal treat or to share with loved ones on a romantic evening.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:09:34.475Z

During my recent baking adventure, I decided to try my hand at Mini Heart Cakes with Raspberry Glaze. I was inspired by the vibrant colors of fresh raspberries and wanted to create something special. The cake itself is moist and tender, and the raspberry glaze adds a perfect tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully. This is a recipe I've tested multiple times, and every time, it reminds me how much joy baking can bring.

One tip that has worked wonders for me is to ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing it with sugar. This creates a light and airy batter, making the cakes fluffier once baked. The glaze also shines when you use fresh raspberries instead of frozen ones, enhancing the overall flavor and presentation. Each bite is a sweet, romantic experience that never fails to make me smile!

        Why You'll Love This Mini Heart Cake
        Adorable heart shape perfect for celebrations and gifts
Deliciously moist cake with a bright raspberry glaze
Easy to make and beautifully impressive for any occasion

      

Baking Tips for a Perfect Mini Heart Cake

When preparing the batter for your Mini Heart Cake, it's crucial to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly, as this process introduces air into your mixture, resulting in a fluffier texture. Aim for a pale yellow color and a light, airy consistency. If you notice the mixture isn’t fluffy after mixing for 3-4 minutes, continue to beat until you achieve the desired texture. This crucial step will ensure your cake rises beautifully and retains moisture.

Be mindful of your oven's accuracy. Ovens can vary significantly in temperature, so I recommend using an oven thermometer to ensure it's at 350°F (175°C). If your cake browns too quickly, consider placing a baking sheet on a rack above your cake to shield it from direct heat. This adjustment can help prevent over-baking while allowing the center to cook through perfectly.

Understanding the Raspberry Glaze

The raspberry glaze is what truly elevates this dessert. Using fresh raspberries not only adds a vibrant color but also contributes a tartness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cake. For an incredibly smooth glaze, blending and then straining the mixture is key. This removes any seeds and gives you a glossy finish that enhances the cake's visual appeal. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen ones, but ensure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your glaze.

Add a pinch of salt to the raspberry glaze to enhance its flavors. Just a small amount will heighten the sweetness and provide a more complex taste. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, slowly add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired level of sweetness. Remember, glazing is more of an art than a science, so don’t hesitate to adjust based on your preference.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Mini Heart Cakes.

For the Cake

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

For the Raspberry Glaze

1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp lemon juice

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your lovely Mini Heart Cakes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a heart-shaped cake pan to ensure easy release after baking.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then add the buttermilk and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared heart-shaped pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Make the Raspberry Glaze

In a blender, combine the fresh raspberries, powdered sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the seeds.

Finish the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the raspberry glaze generously over the top. Slice and enjoy your adorable Mini Heart Cakes!

Serve these cakes with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful touch!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a hint of almond extract to the cake batter. It pairs beautifully with the raspberry glaze and adds a subtle depth to the overall dessert.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Heart Cakes are ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions. Consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance. You might also pair these cakes with a light scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creamy ice cream alongside the tangy raspberry glaze will create a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

To make this dessert even more festive, you can top the cakes with fresh raspberries before serving. This not only looks beautiful but also enhances the raspberry flavor profile. Additionally, feel free to garnish with chocolate shavings or edible flowers for an appealing presentation that will wow your guests.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Mini Heart Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they will maintain their texture and flavor for a short period. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can make the cake dry.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cakes before glazing. Wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to three months this way. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and prepare the raspberry glaze fresh to drizzle on top. This method ensures your dessert tastes just as delightful as when you first made it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries for the glaze?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but the flavor may be slightly less intense compared to fresh.

→ How can I store leftover cakes?

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

→ Can I make the cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and glaze them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.