Can I use a different pan if I don't have a heart-shaped one?

Absolutely! A 9-inch round or square pan works great - just keep an eye on it after 20 minutes since baking times may vary. The heart shape is adorable, but the taste is what really matters!

How do I prevent my cake from drying out?

Two secrets: 1) Don't overbake - pull it out when the toothpick has moist crumbs, not clean, and 2) Swap regular milk for buttermilk. That extra fat makes all the difference in keeping your pink birthday cake heart shaped delightfully moist.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The unfrosted cake freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then frost fresh - nobody will guess it wasn't baked that day!

Why did my pink color fade after baking?

Gel food coloring is your friend here! Liquid dyes often fade, but gel holds its vibrant hue. If it still lightens, add an extra drop or two next time - the batter should look slightly darker than your desired shade.

What's the best way to get clean slices?

Chill the frosted cake for 30 minutes first, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. Works like magic for those picture-perfect pieces!

Irresistible Pink Birthday Cake Heart Shaped in 5 Simple Steps

Name: Irresistible Pink Birthday Cake Heart Shaped in 5 Simple Steps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; Pink food coloring (as needed); 1 cup whipped cream or frosting; Sprinkles (optional)

Irresistible Pink Birthday Cake Heart Shaped in 5 Simple Steps

Print Recipe

A delightful pink heart-shaped birthday cake, perfect for celebrations. Soft, moist, and visually appealing.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 1 heart-shaped cake (8-10 servings) 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Pink food coloring (as needed)
1 cup whipped cream or frosting
Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a heart-shaped cake pan.
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture. Mix well.
Add vanilla extract and pink food coloring. Stir until evenly colored.
Pour batter into the pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Decorate with whipped cream or frosting and sprinkles.

Notes

Use gel food coloring for a vibrant pink shade.
Let the cake cool before frosting to prevent melting.
Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: pink birthday cake, heart-shaped cake, homemade cake, easy birthday cake

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/pink-birthday-cake-heart-shaped-recipe/