Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Berry Cream

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Berry Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream, chilled; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

I love making this Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Berry Cream for special occasions because it brings both joy and flavor to the table. The delicate layers and the creamy coconut berry topping create a perfect balance, making every bite a sweet treat. Each time I bake this cake, I am reminded of its fluffy texture paired with the refreshing tartness of the berries. It's a quick and delightful dessert that never fails to impress my family and friends during celebrations.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:37:34.702Z

When I first created this Mini Heart Cake, I wanted something that was not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. By using light and fluffy layers complemented by a rich coconut cream, I found that this cake strikes the right balance of sweetness without being overly rich. The combination of textures adds to the overall experience, making it a standout dessert.

One of the best tips I discovered during my baking journey was to chill the coconut cream before whipping it. This ensures that it holds its shape beautifully and gives the cake an impressive finish. Pairing it with a swirl of fresh berries not only elevates the taste but also brings vibrant colors to the plate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coconut flavor paired with fresh berries
Adorable heart shape perfect for celebrations
Light and fluffy texture that delights every bite

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The star of this Mini Heart Cake is undoubtedly the coconut cream, which provides a rich, tropical flavor to the dessert. When selecting coconut cream, opt for a full-fat version for the best texture; it results in a luscious, fluffy topping when whipped. Chilling the coconut cream beforehand is essential, as it helps to form stiff peaks during mixing, allowing you to achieve that airy texture that beautifully complements the light cake layers.

Using unsalted butter contributes to the balance of flavors. The butter is creamed with sugar until light, a process that incorporates air and helps create the cake's fluffy texture. Always ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best results. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute it with an equal amount of oil for a denser cake, keeping in mind that the flavor profile will slightly change.

Tips for Baking a Perfect Heart Cake

When it comes to baking, the temperature of your oven is crucial. Always preheat your oven, as this ensures even cooking from the moment the batter goes in. A baking time of 20-25 minutes should yield a perfectly baked cake, but start checking around the 20-minute mark. Look for a light golden color and a toothpick inserted into the center coming out clean. This is essential to avoid a dry cake.

Additionally, greasing and flouring your heart-shaped pans properly can make all the difference. Use a cooking spray or solid shortening to coat the pans generously, then dust them with flour, tapping out the excess. This helps prevent sticking, ensuring your heart cake retains its shape and looks attractive when removed from the pans.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Berry Cream:

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Coconut Berry Cream

1 can (14 oz) coconut cream, chilled
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have your ingredients measured and ready to go for a seamless baking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Mini Heart Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour heart-shaped cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Make the Coconut Berry Cream

While the cake is cooling, prepare the coconut berry cream. In a chilled bowl, beat the coconut cream and powdered sugar until fluffy. Gently fold in the mixed berries for added flavor and texture.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of coconut berry cream over it, then top with the second cake layer. Cover the top and sides with remaining cream and garnish with additional berries.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Berry Cream!

Pro Tips

Make sure to chill the coconut cream well before whipping for better texture. For extra sweetness, add more berries or a drizzle of honey on top!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To store your Mini Heart Cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're planning to serve it later, consider assembling the cake just before your event, as the cream may soften over time, affecting its visual appeal.

For a delightful presentation, serve individual slices topped with extra coconut berry cream and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added texture. A drizzle of berry sauce made by simmering berries with a little sugar can also elevate your serving, adding a beautiful color contrast and extra flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with the berry mix in the cream; incorporate seasonal fruits like blackberries or cherries for a twist. You can also enhance the cream with a hint of lime zest for a citrusy contrast that brightens the cake's overall flavor profile. If you're looking for a more decadent version, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the coconut berry cream.

For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and adjust the baking powder if necessary. Many gluten-free mixes come pre-packaged with leavening agents, which can simplify the process. Additionally, using aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg substitute can make this cake vegan-friendly while still retaining a wonderful light texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance and assembled just before serving to ensure freshness.

→ What can I substitute for the coconut cream?

You can use whipped heavy cream for a different flavor and texture, though it won't be as rich.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unassembled cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.