When the first hints of spring begin to blossom, there’s a special kind of excitement that fills the air—especially with Valentine’s Day around the corner. I found myself searching for the perfect treat to capture all that love and warmth, something that would not only thrill my partner’s taste buds but also leave a lasting impression. Enter the Valentine’s Day Love Cake with Vanilla Buttercream!

This stunning dessert features moist layers of cake, lovingly swirled with vibrant pink and white batter for a delightful tie-dye effect, topped off with a fluffy, homemade vanilla buttercream frosting. The sweet-tart cherries perched on top add a touch of whimsy, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for a romantic celebration or simply to indulge your loved ones, this cake effortlessly elevates any occasion. Trust me, your sweetheart will feel the love—in every delicious bite!

Why You’ll Adore Valentine’s Day Love Cake

Delightful Layers: Each slice reveals a stunning tie-dye effect, captivating eyes before taste buds even have a chance to indulge.

Whimsical Touch: Maraschino cherries on top add a playful flair that makes this cake a standout centerpiece for any romantic gathering.

Rich Creaminess: Fluffy homemade vanilla buttercream envelops each layer, bringing a creamy richness that enhances the cake’s moist texture.

Customizable Fun: With options to use homemade white cake and vibrant food colors, get creative to make it uniquely yours!

Time-Saving Treat: Utilizing a simple cake mix allows for rapid assembly, letting you focus on the romance with your loved ones rather than hours in the kitchen.

Incorporate this masterpiece into your next Valentine’s celebration, paired beautifully with a glass of champagne or some fresh berries to impress your sweetheart even more!

Valentine’s Day Love Cake Ingredients

• For a delightful baking experience, here’s what you need!

For the Cake
• White Cake Mix – A quick option for structure and sweetness; feel free to substitute with homemade white cake for an extra personal touch.
• Large Egg Whites (8) – Adds moisture and lightness; whip until pale for the best texture.
• Maraschino Cherries with Stems (1 jar) – Perfect for decoration, giving a charming and playful appeal.
• Water (2 ½ cups) – Essential for hydrating the cake mix; follow the measurement closely for optimal results.
• Canola Oil (1 cup) – Enhances moisture and richness; vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.

For the Frosting
• Unsalted Butter (3 cups, softened) – Creates the creamy base for your frosting, adding richness.
• Powdered Sugar (6 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; always opt for powdered, not granulated, for a smooth finish.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (5 tbsp) – Adds fluffiness to the frosting; consider a dairy-free option if needed.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Elevates the flavor of the frosting; pure extract offers the best taste but feel free to use artificial as a substitute.
• Pink Gel Food Coloring – For tinting batter and frosting, adding a delightful visual appeal; any food color can work as a substitute.

Essential Tools
• Diverse Piping Bags and Cake Pans – Vital for shaping and frosting; using a star tip piping bag creates lovely decorative effects.

With this collection of ingredients, you are all set to create a stunning Valentine’s Day Love Cake with Vanilla Buttercream that will surely impress your loved ones!

How to Make Valentine’s Day Love Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prep three 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray to ensure an easy release after baking.
Mix the cake ingredients, using a hand mixer, until smooth and well blended. You should aim for a lump-free batter for the best texture!
Divide the batter into two bowls; color one with pink food coloring while keeping the other white. This creates that eye-catching tie-dye effect!
Scoop small amounts (about ¼ cup) of each colored batter into the prepared pans, alternating between pink and white to create a beautiful pattern.
Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans.
Prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter and other frosting ingredients until smooth, forming stiff peaks that will hold their shape well.
Layer the cooled cakes with the prepared frosting in between each layer, then cover the entire cake with frosting, smoothing it out nicely before chilling.
Decorate with pink frosting around the edges and top it off with maraschino cherries for that whimsical touch.

Optional: Dust with edible glitter or colorful sprinkles for an extra festive look!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Valentine’s Day Love Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it moist while allowing flavors to shine.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep it longer, place the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil for added protection.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Valentine’s Day Love Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your cake masterpiece with these delightful twists!

Homemade Base: Replace the white cake mix with a homemade white cake for a fresher touch. A good homemade recipe adds your personal love to the dish!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream for a rich and creamy dairy-free frosting. Enjoy the melted-together flavors that bring everyone to the table!
Fruit Infusion: Add mashed strawberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity twist and a burst of flavor. This gives each slice a beautiful pink hue and deliciously moist texture.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. This unexpected twist enhances both flavor and texture, providing a comforting rustic note.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the frosting for a warm, spicy surprise. This simple swap adds an element of warmth that makes the cake even more inviting.
Flavor Fusion: Swap the vanilla extract for almond or hazelnut extract to introduce a different flavor dimension. You’ll be surprised how a little change can create a whole new experience!
Layered Luxury: Make it a two-tier cake for added grandeur and more layers of frosting. This makes for a stunning presentation that’s truly unforgettable!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent finish that complements the vanilla buttercream nicely. This sweet addition will take indulgence to a whole new level!

These variations are all about making this special cake truly yours. Embrace the love of cooking by trying out these delightful swaps!

What to Serve with Valentine’s Day Love Cake?

When it comes to celebrating love with a beautiful cake, pairing it right can elevate your special occasion even further.

Fresh Berries: A mixture of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a tangy freshness, perfectly balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Champagne: This bubbly beverage sets a romantic mood and complements the cake’s soft, rich textures, making every bite even more special.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Indulge in this delightful treat that mirrors the cake’s love theme and is an irresistible pairing for a romantic dessert spread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness contrasts beautifully with the fluffy buttercream, turning each slice of cake into a delicious dream of flavors.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds to the cake’s charm without overwhelming the already rich flavor profile.

Pair these delightful options with your Valentine’s Day Love Cake with Vanilla Buttercream for an unforgettable culinary experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Valentine’s Day Love Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cakes, let them cool completely, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The frosting can also be made ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bring it together, let the frosting warm slightly at room temperature while you layer the cake. This way, your love cake remains just as delicious, saving you valuable time to enjoy the special moments!

Expert Tips for Valentine’s Day Love Cake

Cool Before Frosting: Ensure the cake layers are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting and ensure a smooth finish.
Mixing Precision: Avoid over-mixing your batter. Mix until just combined to maintain a light and airy texture for your Valentine’s Day Love Cake with Vanilla Buttercream.
Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar until it reaches a spreadable consistency without losing fluffiness.
Perfect Layers: Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers if they domed during baking. This way, they stack nicely with frosting in between!
Color Vibrancy: For a more radiant cake appearance, feel free to adjust the amount of pink gel food coloring according to your aesthetic preference!

Valentine’s Day Love Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe FAQs

What kind of white cake mix should I use?
You can use any standard white cake mix for this recipe, but I highly encourage experimenting with a homemade white cake for a more personal touch! Just ensure it complements the overall flavor and texture you desire.

How should I store the cake after baking?
After baking, store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist. If you’re planning to keep it longer, transfer it to the refrigerator where it can last for up to 5 days. Just remember to wrap it well to maintain its texture!

Can I freeze the Valentine’s Day Love Cake?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze the cake, I’d recommend doing so before frosting it. Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before frosting.

What if my frosting is too soft?
If your vanilla buttercream is too soft to spread, don’t worry! Just add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to overdo it, as you still want that lovely, fluffy texture!

Are maraschino cherries safe for pets?
While maraschino cherries are a sweet topping for your cake, they are not safe for pets, particularly dogs, due to their high sugar content. If you’re planning to share the cake with your furry friends, I’d recommend omitting the cherries or keeping them away from the pet’s reach.

How can I achieve that beautiful tie-dye effect?
To get that gorgeous tie-dye look, alternate scoops (about ¼ cup each) of the pink and white batter in your prepared cake pans. Don’t worry about making it perfect—once baked, the colors will blend beautifully for a stunning result!