Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Vanilla Filling

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Vanilla Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup coconut cream; 1/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of one lime

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating mini treats, and this Mini Heart Cake with Coconut Vanilla Filling is one of my favorites. Each bite is not only adorable but also bursting with flavor thanks to the silky coconut vanilla filling. It’s perfect for special occasions or just to treat myself on a cozy afternoon. I enjoy the simplicity of the recipe, which elevates the traditional cake into something special without requiring extensive baking skills. Let’s dive into this delightful creation!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:22:06.533Z

When I first made these Mini Heart Cakes, I wanted something that would bring a smile to everyone who enjoyed them. The combination of the soft cake and the creamy coconut filling exceeded my expectations! I played around with the proportions, ensuring that every bite had just the right balance of sweetness and flavor. A little bit of lime zest in the coconut filling created a refreshing twist that made these cakes truly irresistible.

One tip I discovered is to let the filling chill for a bit before using it. This helps it set up perfectly for piping into the cakes, ensuring each heart is filled generously. Using quality vanilla and fresh coconut elevates the taste, making it feel gourmet. Trust me; these little cakes will be a hit!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Adorable mini hearts that are perfect for sharing or gifting
Creamy coconut vanilla filling that is simply divine
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration

      

Baking Mini Hearts to Perfection

When baking these mini heart cakes, precision is key. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly; this incorporates air, resulting in a lighter texture. If you're unsure, whisk until the mixture appears pale and fluffy. Monitoring the baking time is crucial, as even a minute too long can lead to dry cakes. I suggest checking around the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick—look for a moist crumb, not wet batter.

Another vital aspect is preparing your mini heart pan. Ensure it’s well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. If you face stubborn cakes sticking to the pan, try gently running a knife around the edges before inverting them onto a cooling rack. This simple trick can save your lovely heart shapes from breaking.

Crafting the Coconut Vanilla Filling

The coconut vanilla filling is where this cake truly shines. Use full-fat coconut cream for an ultra-creamy filling that’s both rich and decadent. If you can’t find coconut cream, you can chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight; simply scoop out the solidified cream from the top. It's crucial to mix it just until smooth to maintain some fluffy texture without overworking it, which may cause it to separate.

Adding lime zest not only enhances the flavor but provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. Be cautious not to add too much zest, as it can overpower the delicate coconut vanilla flavor. After mixing, refrigerate for at least 10 minutes; this helps the filling firm up, making it easier to pipe into the cakes without oozing out.

Decorating and Serving Suggestions

Once your mini heart cakes are assembled, they are delightful as-is, but a few simple decorations can elevate their appearance. Consider dusting them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for added elegance. Using freshly whipped cream on top brings a luscious texture and creates a lovely visual contrast against the cake’s heart shape.

These mini cakes can also be served alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or a tangy fruit compote to cut through the richness. They are perfect as a thoughtful gift or part of a dessert platter for celebrations. If you're making them ahead, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; just add any toppings right before serving for freshness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Mini Heart Cakes:

For the Cake:

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

For the Coconut Vanilla Filling:

1 cup coconut cream
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of one lime

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake and assemble your Mini Heart Cakes:

Preheat the Oven

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

Make the Cake Batter

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into the prepared mini heart pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely.

Prepare the Coconut Filling

In a separate bowl, combine coconut cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lime zest. Mix until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to help it set.

Assemble the Mini Cakes

Once the cakes have cooled, carefully remove them from the pan. Use a piping bag to fill the center of each heart with the coconut filling. You can also top them with whipped cream or shredded coconut for decoration.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate ganache over the assembled cakes for added richness.

Tips for Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. This ensures that the texture remains similar to traditional flour without compromising taste. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and dairy-free coconut cream; it will keep the creamy essence intact while catering to dietary restrictions.

For those who prefer a different flavor profile, consider infusing the coconut filling with different extracts like almond or even a citrus essence. Just start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your preference, keeping in mind that each addition alters the final taste subtly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These mini cakes are an excellent make-ahead option, which can save you time on the day of your event. Both the cakes and the coconut filling can be baked and prepared a day in advance. Store the cakes in an airtight container at room temperature, while the filling should be kept in the refrigerator to maintain its structure and flavor.

If you need to store them longer, consider freezing the unfilled cakes. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cakes at room temperature for a few hours, then fill and decorate to serve fresh.

Scaling Up the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up to make a larger cake is quite simple! To create a full-sized heart cake, double the ingredients for the batter and filling. Use a standard heart-shaped cake pan, and increase the baking time to approximately 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick as mentioned.

If serving a crowd, consider making a layered heart cake by baking two separate heart layers. Once cooled, spread a generous amount of coconut vanilla filling between layers, and finish with a light dusting of shredded coconut on top for a beautiful presentation. This variation can easily become the centerpiece of any celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and assemble them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for coconut cream?

You can use whipped cream or another filling of your choice if coconut isn't to your taste.

→ Are there any gluten-free options?

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

→ Can I freeze these mini cakes?

Yes, the unfilled cakes freeze well. Make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing.