Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour your heart-shaped cake pans. If you don’t have a heart-shaped pan, no problem—use a round pan and cut the cake into heart shapes once it’s baked!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• This will help ensure your cake rises beautifully and has a light texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The key here is getting air into the batter for a soft, airy cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Add the 4 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract for that lovely, comforting flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the 1 cup whole milk. Start with the dry ingredients, then add a little milk, and continue alternating until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep your cake tender.

Step 6: Bake

• Pour the batter evenly into your prepared heart-shaped pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Each oven is different, so keep an eye on it toward the end of the baking time.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

• Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. It’s important not to rush this step—if the cake is too warm, your frosting could melt.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

• While your cakes are cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together:
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Start mixing on low to avoid a powdered sugar storm! Gradually increase the speed and beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. If you’re adding food coloring, now’s the time to mix it in until you achieve your desired shade.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

• Once your cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting between the cake layers. Then, frost the top and sides of the entire cake, smoothing it out with an offset spatula. Don’t forget to get creative with your decoration! Add sprinkles, fresh fruit, or edible flowers to give it a personalized touch.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

• Now comes the best part—enjoying your delicious creation! Slice it up, serve it on a beautiful plate, and savor the moment with your loved ones. The joy of sharing a homemade heart cake is truly special.

Pro Tip: If you’re not planning to serve the cake right away, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it if you want the frosting to hold its shape, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.