Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Almond Sponge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 mini cakes
Ingredients: 200g almond flour; 100g sugar; 3 large eggs; 50g unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Golden Meals

I love making these mini heart cakes as they are the perfect treat for special occasions. The almond sponge adds a delightful nutty flavor that complements any frosting or filling. When I discovered how versatile this recipe is, I was thrilled! It’s easy to whip up, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in just a matter of minutes. Whether you're celebrating Valentine’s Day or a birthday, these lovely cakes will surely impress everyone with their charm and taste.

Created by

Delaney Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:21:35.324Z

Every time I bake these mini heart cakes, I’m reminded of the joy of sharing homemade goodies with loved ones. The almond sponge is incredibly fragrant, and I can’t help but sneak a piece before they’re frosted! The key to a lovely texture is to blend the ingredients just until combined, avoiding overmixing.

When I first experimented with different flavor pairings, I found that adding a touch of vanilla extract elevates the taste even more. These cakes are so versatile; you can fill them with anything from whipped cream to fruit preserves, making each bite a luscious experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich almond flavor that adds depth to the cake
Adorable heart shape perfect for gifting
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth

      

Mastering the Almond Sponge

The almond flour is the star of the show in this recipe, providing a rich and nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience of the cake. When selecting almond flour, I recommend opting for finely ground varieties to ensure a smooth and moist texture. Coarser flours can lead to a grainy cake, which might detract from the delicateness of the mini heart cakes.

Incorporating the wet ingredients into the dry mixture requires a gentle touch. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture we’re aiming for. A quick fold until just combined is all that's needed; this technique preserves air pockets created by the eggs, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Perfecting Your Bake

Baking times can vary based on your oven's calibration and the size of your heart pans. Keep an eye on the cakes after 15 minutes to prevent them from overbaking. You'll know they're ready when the edges have turned a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cakes should also spring back when lightly pressed, indicating a fluffy texture.

Once removed from the oven, allow the cakes to cool briefly in the pans. This helps them firm up slightly, making them easier to remove. To avoid sticking, use non-stick pans or line them with parchment paper. If you still encounter sticking issues, gently wiggling a knife around the edges can help release the cakes without damage.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious mini heart cakes:

For the Almond Sponge

200g almond flour
100g sugar
3 large eggs
50g unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have your baking equipment ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your mini heart cakes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your mini heart-shaped baking pans.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the melted butter and vanilla until well combined.

Mix and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Fill the mini heart pans with batter and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Decorate

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, decorate with your favorite frosting or fruit!

Enjoy your beautifully crafted mini heart cakes!

Pro Tips

For added pleasure, try pairing these cakes with a raspberry coulis or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Versatile Decorating Ideas

These mini heart cakes can be dressed up in countless ways to suit various occasions. Classic buttercream or cream cheese frosting works beautifully on these cakes, providing a sweet contrast to the nutty sponge. For a fresh twist, consider using whipped cream mixed with seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries, which not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile, consider infusing your frosting with almond extract or citrus zest. A subtle hint of orange or lemon zest can brighten the overall taste and complement the almond sponge perfectly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These mini heart cakes can be made in advance, making them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings. Once completely cooled, wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they can be frozen for up to one month. Just be sure to thaw them completely at room temperature before frosting and serving.

If you're planning to frost them later, keep the cakes unadorned until a few hours before serving. This prevents the sponge from becoming soggy and maintains the freshness of the textures. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a simple and elegant touch if you want to dress them up without the fuss of frosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond flour with regular flour?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will be different, so the result won't be quite the same.

→ How can I store these mini cakes?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the mini heart cakes?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they will keep for up to three months in the freezer.

→ What other flavor variations can I try?

You can experiment with different extracts such as almond or lemon, or even add citrus zest for a refreshing twist!