Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake

Name: Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

When I first planned a Galentine's celebration, I knew I needed a dessert that would embody the spirit of friendship and love. That's how I came up with this Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake! It's not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The moist, chocolate-rich cake contrasts beautifully with the light, fluffy vanilla frosting. I love how this cake brings everyone together, making it perfect for celebrating the bonds between friends. Plus, the heart shape adds a sweet touch that truly makes it special.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:02:29.513Z

Creating this Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake was a delightful experiment for me. I wanted something that not only tasted amazing but would also be a centerpiece on the table. The use of a heart-shaped pan was key in achieving that lovely, whimsical look. I also played around with flavors, using a blend of rich cocoa and sweet vanilla, which turned out to be a winning combination for my friends!

During the frosting phase, I learned that letting the cake cool completely before applying the icing is crucial for achieving that perfect, smooth finish. I opted for a classic vanilla buttercream that complements the chocolate base without overpowering it. The result? A beautiful celebration cake that brings smiles with every slice.

        Reasons You'll Love This Cake
        Adorable heart shape perfect for sharing with friends
Decadent chocolate cake paired with creamy vanilla frosting
A delightful centerpiece for your Galentine's celebration

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder creates a robust foundation for the cake. The flour provides structure while the cocoa enhances the chocolate flavor without adding unnecessary sweetness. Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder can significantly elevate the taste, offering a deeper, richer flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter chocolate flavor, consider substituting half of the cocoa powder with additional flour, but keep in mind it will alter the cake’s texture slightly.

Granulated sugar plays a crucial role in this recipe, not only for sweetness but also for moisture retention. As the sugar melts during baking, it creates a tender crumb. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you could substitute up to half with a natural sweetener like maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly, as this may affect the cake's final texture and moisture level.

Mastering the Baking Process

When preparing your heart-shaped cake pan, be sure to grease and flour it thoroughly to prevent sticking. I recommend using a cooking spray designed for baking or a combination of butter and cocoa powder instead of flour for a seamless release. This will help maintain the cake's beautiful shape upon removal, especially given the unique contours of heart-shaped pans.

Baking this cake requires careful attention to timing. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, while underbaking can make it too gooey. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking—the edges should pull away from the pan slightly, and the top should be set, not jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful cake:

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure you have everything you need before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your heart-shaped cake:

Preheat Your Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake is cooling, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, beating until fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly on the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Slice and Serve

Slice the cake and serve with love! Enjoy the delightful flavors with your friends.

Enjoy slicing and sharing your beautiful cake!

Pro Tips

For a burst of flavor, try adding orange zest to the frosting. It complements the chocolate perfectly!

Frosting Tips

Achieving the perfect frosting texture begins with properly softened butter. It should be at room temperature but not overly warm—about 65°F (18°C) is ideal. If your butter is too soft, the frosting can become greasy and may not hold its shape. If it's too cold, it won't blend properly, leaving lumps. To soften butter quickly, you can cut it into small cubes and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.

When making the frosting, start on a low speed to incorporate the powdered sugar gently. Gradually increase the speed and mix until the frosting is fluffy and glossy. If you find the frosting too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This makes spreading the frosting on the cooled cake much easier.

Decorating Your Cake

The heart shape of this cake is a wonderful canvas for decorating. You can use fresh berries, sprinkles, or even edible flowers to enhance its visual appeal. Consider creating a gradient effect with frosting by using different shades of pink and red. A small offset spatula can help you create beautiful swirls and peaks—my favorite way to make the cake look professionally done!

For an extra touch, consider pairing the cake with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This not only elevates the presentation but also contrasts the cake's rich chocolate flavor with lightness. You can also serve it alongside a simple fruit compote for a refreshing balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic wrap until you're ready to frost it.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flax egg as an egg substitute in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to three months.