Description
This charming Heart Cake transforms simple square and round layers into a beautiful romantic centerpiece without the need for specialty pans. Flavored with a nostalgic blend of vanilla and almond, it features a tender, buttery crumb and a stunning marbled pink frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Red and yellow food coloring
- Assorted sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease one 8-inch square pan and one 8-inch round pan, lining both with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, vanilla, and almond extract on high speed for 3 to 5 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
- Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture, and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the butter and vanilla until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and milk until reaching a fluffy consistency.
- Separate portions of frosting into bowls and tint with food coloring to create different shades of pink and peach.
- Assemble the heart by placing the square cake like a diamond, cutting the round cake in half, and attaching the halves to the top edges of the square.
- Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting, chill for 20 minutes, then finish with the remaining frosting, creating a marbled effect and adding sprinkles.
Notes
To ensure a seamless heart shape, use a ruler to find the exact center of the round cake before cutting it in half. If the cake layers are slightly domed, level them with a serrated knife before assembly to help the pieces sit flush against each other. For the best frosting texture, sift your powdered sugar to avoid any tiny lumps in your marbled finish.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American