Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Strawberry Jam Center
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup strawberry jam; Powdered sugar for dusting; Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore these Mini Heart Cakes with Strawberry Jam Centers! They’re not only adorable but also a delightful treat that brings a smile to anyone's face. The combination of moist cake and the sweet surprise of strawberry jam is pure bliss. It's the perfect way to celebrate small moments or make any gathering feel extra special. Plus, they’re quite simple to put together, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful creation!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:17:34.443Z

When I first baked these Mini Heart Cakes, I knew they would be a hit. The process of making and filling them was delightful, and I experimented with different jam flavors before settling on strawberry. The sweetness of the jam paired beautifully with the cake, making each bite a delicious surprise. I usually serve them at gatherings, and the presentation is always a showstopper!

For the perfect bake, I use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a light and fluffy texture. Allowing the cakes to cool completely before filling them with jam is key, as it prevents the jam from melting into the cake. I often top them with a dusting of powdered sugar or serve them with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Cute and romantic heart shape that's perfect for sharing
Fresh strawberry jam adds a burst of flavor in every bite
Great for celebrations, parties, or a sweet treat for yourself

Baking Tips for Mini Heart Cakes

When baking mini heart cakes, it’s crucial to ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before inserting the pans. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and a flat texture. I recommend using an oven thermometer to verify the accuracy of your oven’s temperature—this is especially important for delicate cakes that rely on precise baking conditions.

To achieve the best rise and texture, make sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—aim for about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, leading to a light and airy cake. Additionally, avoid over-mixing when combining wet and dry ingredients; mixing until just combined helps keep the cakes tender.

Strawberry Jam Filling Techniques

For the strawberry jam center, using a high-quality, thick jam ensures that it doesn’t seep out of the cakes during assembly. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider making your own refrigerator strawberry jam by cooking down fresh strawberries with sugar and a bit of lemon juice; this will enhance the fruitiness of your cakes.

When creating the filling space in the cakes, use a small paring knife or a cupcake corer to cut a neat hole in the center without disturbing the outer structure. This technique will keep your cakes beautifully intact and provide a perfect vessel for the jam.

Decoration and Serving Suggestions

Dusting the cooled cakes with powdered sugar not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the visual appeal against the bright red strawberry jam. For additional flair, consider repurposing fresh fruit slices or edible flowers on top for a lovely presentation, especially if serving at special events or gatherings.

These mini heart cakes pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream. If you're catering to dietary preferences, you can substitute the traditional whipped cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly option. Simply chill a can of coconut milk overnight, scoop out the solidified cream, and whip to a soft peak for an equally delightful topping.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Cake

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

For the Filling

1/2 cup strawberry jam

For Decoration

Powdered sugar for dusting
Whipped cream (optional)

Make sure to measure all your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Heart Cakes:

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Add Strawberry Jam

Once the cakes are cool, carefully remove them from the pans. Cut a small hole in the center of half of the cakes and fill with strawberry jam, then place the other half on top to create a sandwich.

Decorate and Serve

Dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy your sweet, heart-shaped cakes!

Enjoy your delightful mini heart cakes with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. You can also substitute the strawberry jam with other fruit jams, like raspberry or apricot, for a unique twist.

Storing Your Heart Cakes

These mini heart cakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap each cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to two months. To serve, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and dust with powdered sugar before enjoying.

If you’ve made a batch but haven’t filled them yet, storage is even simpler. You can store the plain cakes at room temperature for a few days or freeze them unfilled, allowing you to fill and decorate on demand.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you're hosting a larger event or simply want to make more cakes for sharing, you can double the recipe without any issues. Just ensure you have enough heart-shaped pans or bake in batches, as overcrowding the oven can lead to uneven baking.

For smaller gatherings, consider halving the ingredients to make a more manageable quantity. Remember to adjust baking times slightly if using smaller pans, keeping a close eye on the cakes and testing for doneness with a toothpick earlier than the standard 20-25 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and fill them with jam on the day of serving.

→ What can I use instead of strawberry jam?

You can substitute strawberry jam with any fruit jam or preserve you prefer.

→ Can I freeze these cakes?

Yes, the cakes can be frozen before adding the jam. Just make sure they are well wrapped.

→ How can I make the cakes more festive?

You can decorate the cakes with fresh fruit, edible glitter, or themed sprinkles for a festive look.