This Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe is a delightful celebration of flavor and charm, perfect for any special occasion or whenever you want to impress with a heartwarming dessert. This lush red velvet cake features tender, cocoa-kissed layers paired with a silky cream cheese frosting, all beautifully adorned with fresh berries that add bursts of brightness and natural sweetness. The heart shape makes it both visually stunning and irresistibly romantic, ensuring every slice feels like a sweet gift from the heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe. Each component, from the cocoa powder to the fresh berries, plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color.
- All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups / 315g): Provides the structure for the cake layers, ensuring they hold together without being heavy.
- Cocoa powder (2 tbsp, unsweetened): Adds a subtle chocolate hint that gives the red velvet its signature depth.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Acts as a leavening agent to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g, softened): Contributes to the moist, tender crumb and rich taste.
- Granulated sugar (1 ¾ cups / 350g): Sweetens the cake and helps create its soft texture.
- Eggs (2 large, room temperature): Bind ingredients together while adding richness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup / 240ml, room temperature): Introduces acidity that tenderizes the crumb and reacts with baking soda for rise.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors with warm, sweet notes.
- White vinegar (1 tbsp): Reacts with baking soda to create lift and keeps the cake soft.
- Red food coloring (2 tbsp, gel or liquid): Gives the cake its iconic vibrant color without altering flavor.
- Cream cheese (6 oz / 450g, cold): The base of the luscious frosting, providing tang and creaminess.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g, room temp for frosting): Whipped with cream cheese for a light, fluffy texture in the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups / 500g, sifted): Sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1 ½ tsp, for frosting): Adds a rich and comforting flavor to the cream cheese frosting.
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Fresh strawberries (halved), raspberries, blueberries, blackberries: A medley of berries tops the cake with gorgeous color and refreshing taste.
- Optional edible flowers, red velvet cake crumbs, mint leaves: For extra decorative flair and aroma.
How to Make Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your heart-shaped cake pans—grease and line them with parchment for easy release. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl, then set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes, which builds the perfect foundation for a tender crumb. Add eggs one by one, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla, red food coloring, and white vinegar for vibrant color and tender lift. Alternately add the dry ingredients in three parts with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture to maintain a smooth batter. Divide evenly into your pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool completely before assembly, leveling the tops if needed for stability.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
The frosting is what makes this Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe truly irresistible. Beat the cold cream cheese until perfectly smooth, then add the room temperature butter and mix until fluffy and silky, around 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually incorporate the sifted powdered sugar to avoid lumps, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable. Finally, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip to make decorating easier and neater.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving board. Pipe generous dollops of the cream cheese frosting across the top, spreading gently if needed. Carefully position the second layer on top and repeat the frosting process; if making a three-layer cake, repeat this step once more. Finish off by piping a final layer of frosting dollops and then lavishly decorate with an array of halved strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a stunning, fresh finish. For an extra touch, sprinkle with leftover cake crumbs, add edible flowers, or tuck in fresh mint leaves to elevate the cake’s appearance and aroma. Chill the completed cake before serving to help it set if desired, ensuring clean slices each time.
How to Serve Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh berries are the perfect natural garnish on this cake, adding vivid color and juicy bursts that complement the cream cheese frosting’s richness. Consider adding a few edible flowers to bring elegance and charm, or sprinkle finely crushed cake crumbs for texture that echoes the cake layers. A few mint leaves not only add a pop of green but a subtle refreshing note that cuts through the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair this luscious Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe with light sides like a fresh mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. These subtle accompaniments balance the decadence of the cake, making your dessert course feel complete without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving heart-shaped cakes lends itself to festive occasions, so you might present this dessert on a rustic wooden board or a sleek white cake stand to make those vibrant red layers pop. Try placing the berries in pretty clusters or patterns to create a visual feast. Adding delicate doilies or ribbon accents on the cake stand can bring a charming, personalized touch, perfect for celebrations like anniversaries or Valentine’s Day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, store your Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight cake keeper, for up to three days. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes to best enjoy the flavors and soft texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unassembled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to two months. It’s best to freeze the frosting separately in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and assemble fresh. This method preserves the delicate crumb and creaminess without sacrificing quality.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served cool or at room temperature, reheating is usually unnecessary. If desired, allow refrigerated slices to sit out for a while to warm naturally. Avoid using the microwave as it can alter the frosting texture. For the best experience, enjoy this cake freshly served or gently chilled.
FAQs
Can I use regular round cake pans instead of heart-shaped ones?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake in round pans and cut the layers into heart shapes using a sharp serrated knife. This allows you to enjoy the festive shape even if you don’t own specific heart-shaped pans.
Is it possible to make this cake without food coloring?
While red velvet traditionally showcases a vibrant red hue, you can omit the food coloring if you prefer. The cake will have a softer, cocoa-tinted appearance but will still taste delicious and tender with that classic cream cheese frosting finish.
Can I prepare this cake in advance for a party?
Yes! You can bake the layers ahead of time and keep them refrigerated or frozen. Assemble the cake the day before the event to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it properly to keep it fresh and moist.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! You can make a buttermilk substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using.
Are there any tips to prevent the cake from crumbling while assembling?
Chilling the cake layers before frosting helps reduce crumbling and makes them easier to handle. Using a serrated knife to level the tops evenly also creates a stable base, and gently pressing the layers together during assembly will keep everything intact.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up this Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe is such a joyful and rewarding experience, perfect for sharing love and sweetness with those you cherish. Its striking appearance combined with the tender crumb and luscious frosting ensures it will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this cake your own—it’s guaranteed to light up any celebration with warmth and flavor!
Print
Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 slices (2 mini cakes or 1 large cake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Layer Cake with Berries is a stunning dessert perfect for special occasions. Featuring moist red velvet cake layers complemented by rich, creamy cream cheese frosting, and topped with an assortment of fresh berries, this recipe delivers both beautiful presentation and delicious flavor. Easy to assemble and customizable with edible flowers or cake crumbs, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring (gel or liquid)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 6 oz (170g) cream cheese, cold
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- Fresh strawberries (halved)
- Raspberries
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Optional: edible flowers, red velvet cake crumbs, mint leaves
Instructions
- Make the Cake Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line 2 to 3 heart-shaped cake pans or round pans if you plan to cut hearts later. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt, then set aside. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar. Add the dry flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling and level the tops if necessary.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the cold cream cheese until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add the room temperature butter and continue beating for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip for easier decorating.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving board. Pipe large dollops of the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Gently place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting process. If you have a third layer, add it and repeat the frosting steps once more. Finish by piping a final layer of frosting dollops on top. Garnish the cake with a mixture of fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. For added decoration, optionally sprinkle with red velvet cake crumbs or add edible flowers and fresh mint leaves. Chill the assembled cake before serving to reduce crumbling when cutting.
Notes
- Chilling the cake layers before stacking helps reduce crumbling and makes assembly easier.
- If you don’t have heart-shaped pans, bake in round pans and use a serrated knife to cut the cakes into heart shapes.
- Add lemon zest to the cream cheese frosting for a fresh citrusy flavor twist.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
