Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake

Name: Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 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; Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries); Sprinkles or shaved chocolate

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love celebrating Galentine's Day with friends, and this Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake is the perfect centerpiece for our gathering. The rich cake, combined with vibrant frosting and sweet decorations, creates a delightful treat that everyone adores. Baking this cake not only allows me to express my affection for my friends but also serves as an opportunity to showcase my decorating skills. Plus, it’s a fun way to share love and laughter, making our celebration even more special.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:58:30.285Z

When I decided to create this Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake, I experimented with various flavors to find the perfect balance. After several tries, I landed on a silky chocolate cake paired with a light vanilla frosting that truly makes it sing. I discovered that letting the cake cool completely before frosting helps the layers adhere better, resulting in a beautiful finish.

What I love most about this cake is how customizable it can be. You can add fresh berries, colorful sprinkles, or even a dash of citrus zing to the frosting. It allows everyone to get creative, turning baking into a bonding experience that my friends and I cherish every year.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape perfect for celebrating friendship
Rich chocolate cake layered with creamy vanilla frosting
Customizable toppings to make it uniquely yours

      

Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture

The secret to a moist and decadent Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake lies in the precise balance of ingredients. While the cocoa powder provides rich chocolate flavor, the combination of oil and milk ensures the cake remains tender and fluffy. Mixing the boiling water into the batter just before baking helps activate the cocoa, resulting in a more intense flavor. Remember to avoid overmixing once you've added the eggs; this will keep your cake light and airy.

When preparing your cake pans, using both grease and flour will help prevent sticking, especially with intricate heart shapes. I recommend using a non-stick spray combined with a light dusting of flour. If you find your cakes stick, let them cool in the pans for a few extra minutes. This gives the crumb a chance to set, making it easier to lift them out without any breakage.

Frosting: From Creamy to Creative

The frosting for this cake is not only delicious but also essential for decorating. By beating the butter until it’s creamy, you create a fluffier base that holds air and will lend to a light texture. Gradually incorporating the powdered sugar and alternating with heavy cream prevents clumping and helps achieve that silky, spreadable consistency. If you want a firmer frosting for piping or more intricate decoration, feel free to add a touch more powdered sugar until you reach your desired thickness.

Variation in flavor is easy with this frosting. You can infuse it by swapping out the vanilla extract for almond extract, or adding a splash of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. For those avoiding dairy, use a plant-based butter and coconut cream to create a vegan version without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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

For Decoration

Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries)
Sprinkles or shaved chocolate

Feel free to adjust the amounts according to your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two heart-shaped cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, then stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, and mix in vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake on top and frost the top and sides of the cake generously.

Decorate

Add fresh berries and sprinkles as desired. Allow the cake to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy this delightful cake with your friends!

Pro Tips

For easier decoration, you can place the frosting in a piping bag. Experiment with different flavors of frosting and toppings to make it your own.

Making Ahead and Storing

If you're planning a Galentine's gathering, consider baking your cake layers a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the cakes retain moisture. You can also prepare the frosting ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, giving it a quick re-whip before decorating.

Once assembled, your Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake can be kept at room temperature for about 2-3 days, covered loosely to avoid drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Customizing Your Cake Toppings

One of the most delightful aspects of this Heart-Shaped Galentine's Cake is the ability to personalize it with various toppings. Fresh berries, like strawberries and raspberries, not only add a pop of color but also introduce a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake and frosting. If you're considering a themed gathering, try using colored sprinkles that match your party’s palette or even edible glitter for a glamorous touch.

If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider adding flavored syrups or jams between the cake layers. Raspberry or strawberry preserves can be a delightful layer, enhancing the taste and providing moisture. Alternatively, crushed cookies or candy can add a delightful crunch and visual appeal, making your cake uniquely yours.

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 in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use other types of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with different flavors like cream cheese or whipped cream.

→ Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).