Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake

Name: Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup hot water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

When I first set out to make a heart-shaped chocolate cake, I never imagined it would become a beloved favorite among my family and friends. With its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture, this cake is not just a treat; it's a symbol of love and celebration. I love that it’s not overly complicated to make, yet it feels like an elegant dessert. Perfect for special occasions or just to brighten up any day, this cake always brings smiles to the table.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:29:35.634Z

As I prepared this heart-shaped chocolate cake, I experimented with different methods to achieve the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The combination of high-quality cocoa and buttermilk makes the cake wonderfully rich yet light. I also discovered that letting the cake cool completely before frosting allows for a flawless layer of chocolate ganache.

Adding a touch of vanilla extract to the batter creates a depth of flavor that elevates the chocolate. It's these little touches that transform a simple dessert into a heartfelt creation, making it an essential recipe for any celebration in my home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Choosing high-quality cocoa powder is essential for rich flavor in your heart-shaped chocolate cake. I recommend using a Dutch-processed cocoa, which adds a smoother, more complex chocolate note. While supermarket brands often work well, consider artisanal ones for a more intense chocolate experience. This choice greatly influences both the taste and color of your cake, ensuring a decadent outcome.

When it comes to buttermilk, its acidity plays a crucial role in achieving the cake's tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This homemade version will yield similar results, helping the cake rise beautifully and maintain moisture.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

To achieve an evenly baked cake, it's vital to preheat your oven properly. An oven thermometer can help you confirm that your oven reaches the correct temperature. Baking at 350°F (175°C) provides the perfect environment for the cake to rise without over-browning. Keep an eye on the cake, as baking times can vary depending on the oven. The toothpick test is your best bet; it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Cooling the cake thoroughly is equally important before applying the ganache. If the cake is even slightly warm, the ganache will melt and run off, making it difficult to achieve that perfect drip effect. I recommend allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack after transferring from the pan. This will give you a beautifully frosted cake that holds its shape and looks impressive.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot water

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a heart-shaped cake pan. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, combining gently. Finally, stir in the hot water until well mixed.

Bake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter, stirring until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before using.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the chocolate ganache over the top. Allow it to drip down the sides. Let the ganache set before slicing and serving.

Enjoy Your Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache. The contrast adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Storing and Freezing the Cake

This heart-shaped chocolate cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. However, be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop. If storing in the fridge, placing a piece of wax paper between the cake layers can help prevent them from sticking together.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight. You can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a quick warm-up, which enhances the melty texture of the chocolate.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your heart-shaped chocolate cake with different flavor combinations. Adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients can intensify the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. Alternatively, experiment by folding in chocolate chips or nuts into the batter for added texture and surprise bites of flavor.

For a citrus twist, consider adding citrus zest or flavoring to the ganache. An orange or lemon zest can add brightness and cut through the cake's richness. If you're looking for a deeper flavor, a splash of peppermint extract can transform the ganache into a decadent mint chocolate treat, perfect for the holidays or special events.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a regular round cake pan instead of a heart-shaped one?

Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time if you're using a different size.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ What if I want to use a different type of frosting?

Feel free to substitute the ganache with your choice of frosting, like buttercream or cream cheese frosting!