Mini Heart Cake with Rose Flavor

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Rose Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 2 teaspoons rosewater; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon milk; 1 teaspoon rosewater; Edible rose petals for decoration (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Mini Heart Cakes with Rose Flavor for special occasions. The delicate balance of floral notes with a hint of sweetness brings a unique twist to traditional cake recipes. When I first experimented with rosewater in baking, I was amazed at how it elevated the overall flavor profile, creating an elegant yet simple dessert. Each bite is a gentle reminder of spring, making these cakes perfect for anniversaries or Valentine's Day celebrations.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:31:16.412Z

When I decided to create these Mini Heart Cakes with Rose Flavor, I wanted to capture the essence of love in a dessert form. As I tested different ingredients, I found that the subtle taste of rosewater not only complemented the cake's sweetness but also added a fragrance that filled my kitchen with warmth. I recommend using high-quality rosewater for the best results.

Each time I bake these cakes, I enjoy experimenting with the decorations. Whether it's a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a more elaborate floral design, the visual appeal makes them even more delightful. Don't forget to serve them with a cup of tea for an aromatic experience!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Floral aroma that evokes a sense of elegance
Perfectly moist texture keeps you coming back for more
Ideal for personal celebrations or as a thoughtful gift

      

Understanding Rosewater

Rosewater is the star ingredient in this Mini Heart Cake, and its distinct floral flavor elevates the cake's taste to another level. It's essential to use high-quality rosewater, preferably from natural sources rather than synthetic options, which can impart a less authentic taste. When measuring, start with the recommended amount and adjust to your preference. A little goes a long way, so taste the batter as you add rosewater until you achieve a delightful balance of flavor.

Beyond flavor, rosewater helps keep the cake moist due to its liquid content, enhancing the cake's texture. It's not just there for aroma; it plays a crucial role in creating that perfect, tender crumb. If you're looking for alternatives, you can swap rosewater for orange blossom water for a different floral profile, or for a non-floral option, consider vanilla extract for a classic touch.

Icing Tips for Perfection

When preparing the icing, ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If the icing appears too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired spreadability. For a lighter touch, you can fold whipped cream into the icing after it's mixed; this adds an airy texture that pairs beautifully with the dense cake.

If you're decorating the cakes, consider using edible rose petals or even a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for visual interest and a flavor contrast. Be careful not to over-ice; a thin layer allows the floral notes of the cake to shine through while still providing a lovely sweetness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Mini Heart Cakes can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for special events. Allow the cakes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze the un-iced cakes for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

For serving, consider pairing the cakes with a light tea or a sparkling beverage to complement the floral notes. Plating the cakes with a garnish of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the presentation and add a fresh contrast to the sweet, delicate flavors.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 teaspoons rosewater
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Icing

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon rosewater
Edible rose petals for decoration (optional)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini heart-shaped cake pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray.

Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the rosewater.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into the prepared mini heart pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before removing.

Prepare the Icing

In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar, butter, milk, and rosewater. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Ice the Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread the icing on top and decorate with edible rose petals if using.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a more intense rose flavor, add a few drops of rose extract to the icing. Serve the cakes with a light tea to enhance the floral notes.

Cake Texture Insights

Achieving the perfect cake texture hinges on the creaming method. When you cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, tiny air bubbles form, which leaven the cake as it bakes. This step is critical; under-creaming can result in a denser cake, while over-creaming may lead to a grainy texture. Aim for a pale yellow color and a creamy, fluffy texture before adding the eggs, as this indicates it's ready.

Additionally, the use of milk in your batter aids in creating a moist cake that doesn't dry out during baking. Full-fat milk is preferable because it enhances the richness of the cake. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk works well, but the cake may be slightly less rich.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cakes domed too high while baking, it could be a sign of overmixing. Next time, ensure to mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Conversely, if they sank in the middle, you may not have baked them long enough—always check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cakes are ready to come out of the oven.

For those who find their icing running off the cakes, it may be too thin. You can remedy this by adding more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired thickness. Remember that room temperature cakes hold icing better than chilled ones, so allow them to stabilize before decorating.

Variations on the Recipe

While the rose flavor is enchanting, feel free to experiment with different flavorings. Lavender, almond, or citrus zest can provide unique twists to the cakes. For a chocolate version, simply replace one-third of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. This not only changes the flavor but also creates a beautiful contrast when iced with the floral mixture.

If you're looking to serve a crowd, consider making a larger heart-shaped cake rather than individual mini cakes. Just extend the baking time to about 30-35 minutes, and keep an eye on it, especially in the last few minutes, to avoid overbaking. A larger cake allows more opportunities for decoration, which can heighten its visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other flavors instead of rose?

Yes, you can substitute rosewater with flavors like vanilla or almond, but keep in mind the taste will change.

→ How should I store the leftover cake?

Store any leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate if you’ve used fresh decorations.

→ Are there any special tips for baking mini cakes?

Mini cakes bake faster than larger ones, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.

→ Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day ahead, store them, and ice just before serving for best results.