Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Mousse

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Mousse
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tbsp sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large egg white; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Mini Heart Cakes with Chocolate Mousse for special occasions. The combination of light, fluffy chocolate mousse atop a delicate, moist cake captures the essence of indulgence in every bite. Honestly, it's a treat that never fails to impress my guests, and with Valentine's Day around the corner, I can't think of a more perfect dessert to share. Plus, the heart shape makes it visually stunning and adds a romantic touch to any celebration, making it a wonderful way to show someone you care.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:01:10.402Z

Creating these Mini Heart Cakes was an adventure filled with culinary exploration. I wanted something cute yet decadent, and the chocolate mousse popped into my mind as the perfect topping. Type out each layer and ingredient meant bringing together the textures of a sponge cake and the overflow of rich mousse. It's crucial to let the mousse set sufficiently to achieve that light yet luxurious feel in each spoonful.

As I prepared the heart-shaped molds, I realized how important presentation is for this dish. The first time I did this, the mousse was way too soft, and it collapsed when I turned the molds. Now, I know to chill the mousse thoroughly and serve the cakes fresh—the perfect method for a mind-blowing dessert experience!

        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

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Mousse has a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The unsalted butter not only contributes richness but also affects the cake's moisture. Make sure to properly cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, as this creates air pockets that help keep the cake light. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Using semi-sweet chocolate is essential for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness in the mousse. Opt for high-quality chocolate, as it impacts the final result significantly. If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, you can use bittersweet chocolate, but be cautious with the sugar, as it may need adjusting. Also, incorporating fresh orange zest into the mousse elevates the flavors, giving it a bright, aromatic profile that complements the richness of the chocolate beautifully.

Key Techniques for Success

When preparing the cake batter, take care not to overmix once the dry ingredients are added. This helps prevent the cake from becoming dense. As a visual cue, stop mixing as soon as you no longer see any dry flour. For the heart-shaped molds, lightly greasing them will help to ensure an easy release after baking. Be vigilant in checking at the 18-minute mark, as ovens can vary. You're looking for a light golden color and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

For the mousse, melting the chocolate over a double boiler allows for precise control of the temperature and prevents burning. Stir constantly until the chocolate is glossy and fully melted. When whipping the heavy cream, ensure it’s chilled to achieve the best volume. For a smooth folding process, gradually incorporate the chocolate into the whipped cream, using a silicone spatula to lift and fold gently to preserve the airiness of the mixture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Mousse.

For the Cake

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

For the Chocolate Mousse

4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg white
Pinch of salt

Make sure everything is at room temperature for better mixing.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to prepare your delicious Mini Heart Cake with Chocolate Mousse.

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract, then sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into heart-shaped molds and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the molds for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack.

Make the Chocolate Mousse

Melt the chocolate over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat the egg white with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.

Carefully fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream, then fold in the egg whites.

Assemble the Cakes

Once the cakes have cooled, place them on serving plates. Top each cake with a generous dollop of chocolate mousse. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Serve the cakes chilled and enjoy a sweet moment with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

Make sure to chill the mousse thoroughly to ensure it holds its shape. You can also add a touch of orange zest to elevate the flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Mini Heart Cakes can be made in advance, making them perfect for busy occasions. Bake the cakes and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze the unassembled cakes by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to a month. This way, you can enjoy fresh cakes any time you like! Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to avoid excess moisture buildup.

The chocolate mousse can also be prepared a day ahead of time. Once made, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container without any toppings. When you're ready to assemble, simply spoon it onto the cooled cakes. If the mousse thickens too much overnight, gently re-whip it before serving to restore its creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your serving presentation, consider dusting the chocolate mousse with cocoa powder or topping it with fresh berries or edible flowers. A sprig of mint adds a lovely touch of color and freshness to contrast the rich chocolate. Pairing the dessert with a scoop of vanilla or orange ice cream can also create a delightful flavor combination that highlights the zesty notes in the mousse.

For variations, feel free to experiment with flavors in the mousse. Adding a tablespoon of espresso can provide a wonderful coffee flavor, enhancing the chocolate experience. Alternatively, for a nutty kick, try incorporating a tablespoon of finely ground nuts into the batter or mousse. Just ensure any added ingredients are blended well to maintain the dessert's smooth and delicate texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ What type of chocolate should I use for the mousse?

Semi-sweet chocolate works best for a rich flavor, but you can use dark chocolate for a more intense taste.

→ Can I replace the eggs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for the eggs if needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.