Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore baking for special occasions, and this Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge has become a favorite in our household. The combination of light, airy almond sponge and delicate frosting makes it the perfect treat for celebrations or a cozy afternoon tea. Each bite is a symphony of flavor and texture, reminding me of the warmth of family gatherings and joyful moments. Baking it always fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma that lingers long after it’s out of the oven, making it impossible to resist starting a slice right away!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:49:11.029Z

Baking this Mini Heart Cake has become a cherished tradition for me. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen filled with the smell of toasting almond flour and vanilla. I knew immediately that I had stumbled upon something special. The sponge is extremely forgiving, allowing room for minor adjustments without compromising the quality.

One tip I’ve picked up along the way is to make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This really helps to create that perfect rise in the batter. The cake’s light and fluffy structure will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it, providing a heavenly backdrop for any frosting!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Almond sponge adds a delightful nutty flavor
Perfectly portioned for intimate celebrations
A gorgeous centerpiece that impresses with its heart shape
Versatile: enjoy as is or dress it up with frosting

      

Understanding the Almond Sponge

The almond flour in this recipe is key to achieving the rich, nutty flavor and moist texture that makes this Mini Heart Cake special. Almond flour has a higher fat content than regular flour, which contributes to a tender crumb. Make sure to measure it correctly, as too much can lead to a dense cake. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour is naturally gluten-free, but ensure that all other ingredients align with your dietary needs.

Eggs also play a crucial role in this cake. They provide structure while adding moisture and richness. When mixing in the eggs, it’s important to do so one at a time; this helps to create a stable emulsion that captures air, aiding in leavening. If you happen to have a vegan lifestyle, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute; this will maintain the cake's moisture and binding properties.

Frosting Tips for a Beautiful Finish

Whipping the cream to the right consistency is essential for achieving that perfect frosting. It should be thick enough to hold its shape without being overly stiff. Watch for soft peaks first, then gradually add in the powdered sugar. This helps to sweeten the cream subtly without compromising its texture. If you find the cream is too soft, you can continue beating it for a minute, but be cautious; over-whipping can turn the cream into butter.

You can also customize the frosting by adding flavors like almond extract or even a hint of lemon juice to complement the cake's nutty notes. For a richer taste, consider mixing in a few tablespoons of cream cheese, which will give the frosting a tangy contrast to the sweetness. Remember to frost only after the cake has completely cooled to prevent the frosting from melting off.

Ingredients

For the Almond Sponge

1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk

For the Frosting (Optional)

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk until combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into a heart-shaped cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting (Optional)

Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Use immediately.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top with whipped cream and decorate as desired. Slice and serve!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider infusing the whipped cream with some almond extract or zesting a lemon into your frosting for a citrusy note.

Make-Ahead Storage

This Mini Heart Cake can easily be made a day in advance, making it convenient for party planning. If you're preparing ahead of time, store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh and enjoyable for up to two days. If you plan to frost it later, keep the whipped cream separate and frost just before serving to maintain its airy texture.

Should you have any leftovers, either the unfrosted or frosted cake can be refrigerated. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to avoid drying out and consume it within three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cake in an airtight container for up to a month; just make sure to let it thaw completely before serving.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mini Heart Cake with fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and added flavor. Berries like strawberries or raspberries can enhance the dessert's overall presentation and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich almond taste. Drizzling a simple berry coulis over the plate can elevate the dish further, making it perfect for special occasions, or even a romantic dinner.

Consider trying different frostings or toppings based on the occasion. A dusting of cocoa powder or finely crushed nuts can add a delightful crunch, while a layer of fruit preserves can bring an interesting tart note. Experimenting with these variations can keep the dish exciting and appropriate for various events.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

While almond flour adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cake flour, although the taste and texture may differ.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Frosting can also be whipped fresh before serving.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the almond sponge ahead of time and freeze it. Just thaw and frost before serving.

→ Is it possible to make a larger cake?

Absolutely! Just double the recipe and use a larger pan, adjusting baking time as needed.