Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake

Name: Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Soft Recipes

I absolutely adore making this Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake, especially during special occasions. The rich chocolate flavor combined with a hint of vanilla and the unique heart shape adds a personal touch that delights everyone. Baking this cake not only fills my kitchen with a heavenly aroma but also creates a memory that lasts long after the last bite. It’s a perfect way to show someone you care, and the process is so enjoyable that I often make it just to brighten up a regular day.

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:21:35.814Z

Every time I bake this Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake, I try a few new changes to enhance the flavor. Last time, I added a splash of espresso to the batter, which really boosted the chocolate taste without being overwhelming. The result was a moist cake that disappeared in no time!

As part of my baking routine, I always ensure my ingredients are at room temperature. This small step makes such a difference in achieving the perfect fluffy texture. It’s a simple tip, but it really elevates the cake from good to spectacular!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a touch of espresso
Beautiful heart shape perfect for any loved one
Rich, moist texture that's sure to impress

      

Perfecting Your Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake

To achieve a beautifully shaped heart cake, it's crucial to use the correct pans. Look for heart-shaped cake pans that are at least 8 to 9 inches in size for even baking. This ensures that the batter rises evenly, preventing any dome effect that could distort the heart shape. Additionally, greasing and flouring the pans thoroughly prevents the cake from sticking, allowing for an easy release once baked. Remember to let the cakes cool upright for better shape retention.

The rich flavor of this cake stems from the combination of high-quality cocoa powder and vanilla extract. When selecting cocoa powder, I recommend using Dutch-processed for a smoother and richer taste. The unsweetened cocoa adds depth, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring a well-rounded chocolate experience. Additionally, if you're looking to elevate the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of instant espresso to the dry ingredients—it enhances the chocolate without making the cake taste like coffee.

Tips for a Luxurious Frosting

To achieve a smooth and glossy frosting, it’s essential to beat the softened butter until it is light and fluffy before adding the powdered sugar and cocoa. This method incorporates air, leading to a more luxurious texture that spreads evenly. If the frosting is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding an extra tablespoon of heavy cream until you reach your desired texture. Alternatively, if it's too runny, add more powdered sugar, a little at a time.

When frosting the cake, use an offset spatula for precise control and an even spread. Start by applying a thin layer of frosting known as a crumb coat, which traps any loose crumbs. After refrigerating for about 30 minutes, add a thicker layer of frosting for a smooth finish. This method not only enhances the cake's visual appeal but also ensures that each slice looks as impressive as it tastes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cake:

Cake Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup heavy cream

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you'll be ready to start baking!

Instructions

Here is how to bake your Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix in the vanilla and heavy cream until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Your Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake is now ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkling some sea salt on top of the frosting for a delightful contrast.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake can be made a day in advance, which is especially helpful for busy occasions. Once baked and cooled, wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. This protects the cake from drying out while retaining its moisture and flavor. When ready to serve, simply frost and decorate the cake as desired. If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

If you plan to freeze the cake, it’s best to do so before frosting. Wrap the cooled cake layers individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator before frosting. This process ensures that the cake retains its moistness for a delightful eating experience.

Serving Suggestions

For an unforgettable presentation, consider serving the Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or fresh berries can add a colorful contrast, making the cake visually appealing. You can also drizzle some raspberry sauce or chocolate ganache over the top to enhance the flavor and appearance equally.

If you want to elevate the flavor even further, serve the cake with a side of espresso or a glass of dessert wine. The pairing creates a delightful ending to a special meal, making each bite even more enjoyable. Depending on the occasion, you can also customize the decorations, adding edible flowers or themed toppings to match celebrations like anniversaries or Valentine’s Day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different shape of cake pan?

Yes, you can use round or square pans. However, adjust baking time as necessary.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter in the frosting.