Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake Hearts Recipe: Celebrate Love with a Sweet Treat
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, appreciation, and sweet gestures. Whether you’re looking to surprise a significant other, express gratitude to a loved one, or simply indulge your own sweet tooth, this recipe for Red Velvet Cake Hearts with Cream Cheese Filling is the perfect choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create these delightful treats. Not only are they delicious, but their adorable heart-shaped design makes them a festive addition to your Valentine’s Day plans. Let’s dive in and spread the love!
Why You’ll Love Red Velvet Hearts
This recipe is a perfect blend of beauty, taste, and ease:
- Effortlessly Elegant: These heart-shaped cakes are as stunning as they are delicious, making them a show-stopper at any Valentine’s gathering.
- Versatile: Moreover, customize the recipe with ingredient swaps to suit dietary preferences or experiment with different garnishes for a personal touch.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun baking activity for kids, who will love cutting out the hearts and decorating them.
- Thoughtful Gift: Furthermore, homemade treats are a heartfelt way to show someone you care, and these cakes do just that.
Ingredients for
Red Velvet Hearts
Gather these ingredients before you begin:
For the Cake:
- 1 (18.25-ounce) box red velvet cake mix 🌼
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 🌱
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🥐
- 1½ cups confectioners’ sugar 🍬
For Garnish:
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional) 🍭
Necessary Tools for Red Velvet Hearts
Ensure you have these tools on hand:
- 15×10-inch rimmed baking sheet
- Nonstick baking spray with flour 🌿
- Parchment paper 🖌️
- Electric mixer 🍚
- 2-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter ❤️
- Piping bag (or a resealable bag with the corner cut off)
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Make this recipe your own with these ideas:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix.
- Dairy-Free Version: Moreover, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Flavor Boost: Furthermore, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling.
- Extra Texture: Additionally, sprinkle crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or shredded coconut between the cake layers.
- Color Variations: Besides that, swap red velvet for chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry cake mix to suit your theme.
Moreover, check out this recipe for Valentine’s Day heart sugar cookies to add a festive touch to your dessert spread.
Step-by-Step Instructions of Red Velvet Hearts
Follow these detailed steps for flawless results:
1. Prepare the Pan
- First, spray a 15×10-inch rimmed baking sheet with nonstick baking spray with flour.
- Then, line the pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake.
2. Mix and Bake the Cake
- Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions.
- After that, pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Then, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Next, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cutting board to cool completely.
3. Cut Out the Hearts
- Use a 2-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out 24 heart-shaped pieces.
- Later, carefully slice each heart in half horizontally to create two thin layers per heart.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter.
- Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, mixing until smooth.
5. Assemble the Hearts
- Turn the cake hearts cut-side up.
- Pipe the cream cheese filling onto one layer of each heart, then top with the remaining layer.
- Then, press gently to secure.
6. Refrigerate and Garnish
- Finally, chill the assembled hearts in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar for a finishing touch.
Pro Tips for Success of Red Velvet Hearts
- Uniform Hearts: Dip the cookie cutter in flour between cuts to ensure clean edges.
- Smooth Filling: Bring the cream cheese and butter to room temperature before mixing.
- Chill for Stability: Moreover, refrigerate the hearts before piping the filling to prevent crumbling.
- Work Quickly: Furthermore, handle the cake gently to avoid breaking delicate layers.
- Decorative Touches: Also, use edible glitter or heart-shaped sprinkles for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a decorative platter with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Moreover, pair with a glass of chilled rosé or sparkling cider for a romantic touch.
- In addition, wrap in clear cellophane bags with a ribbon for a thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift.
- Furthermore, include in a dessert buffet alongside other treats like chocolate-covered strawberries and macarons.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Place the hearts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: In addition, wrap each heart individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Moreover, let the hearts come to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Nutritional Information of Red Velvet Hearts
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (1 heart):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
FAQs
1. Can I make the cake from scratch?
Yes! Substitute the box mix with your favorite homemade red velvet cake recipe.
2. How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Ensure the pan is lined with parchment paper and greased thoroughly.
3. Can I use a different shape?
Absolutely! Use any cookie cutter shape you like to match your theme.
4. What’s the best way to transport these treats?
Arrange the hearts in a sturdy container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
5. How do I achieve vibrant red coloring?
Choose a high-quality cake mix or add a few drops of red food coloring to homemade batter.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cake Hearts with Cream Cheese Filling are the perfect way to spread love this Valentine’s Day. Furthermore, with their stunning appearance, rich flavor, and simple preparation, they’re sure to impress your loved ones. Furthermore, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delightful treat. So, don’t wait to try it—add it to your celebration menu today, and be sure to check out more festive treats to make every occasion even sweeter.
Red Velvet Cake Hearts with Cream Cheese Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 15×10-inch rimmed baking sheet with nonstick baking spray with flour, then line the pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then turn it out onto a cutting board to cool completely.
- Once cooled, use a 2-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out 24 hearts. Slice each heart horizontally to create two layers.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and mix until smooth.
- Pipe or spread the cream cheese filling onto the cut side of 12 hearts. Place the remaining hearts on top to form sandwiches.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Notes
Substitute mascarpone for cream cheese for a creamier texture.
If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, use a round cutter for a different look.
