If you’re ready to delight your taste buds and warm hearts with a showstopper dessert, the Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe is your new best friend. This cake combines the warm, cozy spice of cinnamon with a luxurious, creamy vanilla buttercream that melts in your mouth, culminating in a beautifully festive treat perfect for sharing love any time you want. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or simply craving a sweet, comforting indulgence, this recipe promises an irresistible balance of flavor, texture, and eye-catching elegance that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe starts with a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the cakey softness, that unforgettable cinnamon warmth, and the silky smooth buttercream that crowns the masterpiece.
- 2 boxes white cake mix: The base for a light, fluffy cake that lets the cinnamon shine without overpowering.
- 8 large egg whites: Helps build structure and add moisture without heaviness.
- 2 ½ cups water: Keeps the batter perfectly hydrated for tender crumbs.
- 1 cup canola oil: Adds richness and keeps the cake incredibly moist.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon extract: The secret to that signature warm and spicy flavor throughout your cake layers.
- 3 cups unsalted butter (softened): The luxurious base for the decadently smooth vanilla buttercream.
- 6 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the buttercream to just the right level with a delicate texture.
- 5 tablespoons heavy whipping cream: Whips the buttercream into a light, fluffy dream.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the buttercream with rich, classic vanilla notes.
- Pink gel food coloring: Brings that beautiful Valentine’s Day hue to life in your frosting.
- 1 disposable piping bag: For easy, mess-free frosting application.
- 1 large piping bag with star tip: Creates charming, professional-looking swirls and decorations.
- Valentine’s Day Sprinkles: Adds sparkle, texture, and festive flair.
- 3 Red Rock Candy Sticks: Perfect for a crunchy, eye-catching centerpiece on the cake.
- 2 Red Heart Marshmallow sticks: Adds a soft, whimsical touch that’s perfect for the holiday.
- Red foiled chocolate hearts: A final burst of chocolatey love to adorn your beautiful creation.
How to Make Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake Your Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven according to the cake mix instructions. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, egg whites, water, canola oil, and cinnamon extract. Whip them on medium speed until the batter is smooth and creamy. Pour the batter evenly into greased and floured cake pans. Bake until golden and springy to the touch, about 25 to 30 minutes. Cooling them completely is key before frosting, so give yourself time to snack on some batter or prep your buttercream.
Step 2: Whip Up the Vanilla Buttercream
While your cakes cool, beat together softened butter until creamy and pale, then gradually add powdered sugar in batches while mixing on low to avoid a cloud of sugar. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, and increase the speed to whip until fluffy, light, and spreadable. Add pink gel food coloring a little at a time until you reach the perfect rosy Valentine’s Day shade. Your frosting now sings with sweetness and elegance, ready to transform your cake.
Step 3: Assemble and Decorate Your Cake
Place the first cake layer on your serving plate and generously spread a thick layer of vanilla buttercream over the top. Repeat with the second layer, then cover the entire cake with a smooth crumb coat of frosting. Chill for 15 minutes to set, then use your star tip piping bag to add beautiful swirls all over the cake. Place your red rock candy sticks, marshmallow hearts, and red foiled chocolates artfully on top to finish off this stunning Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe that radiates love and flavor.
How to Serve Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes to your Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe can turn it from a simple dessert into a festive showstopper. Valentine’s Day sprinkles add color and crunch, while red rock candy sticks and heart marshmallows make it playful and charming. Don’t forget the shiny red foiled chocolates that add an extra pop of indulgence and elegance. These details make every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a light, fruity side to contrast the buttery richness. Think fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a simple mixed berry salad. For a cozy touch, serve with a cup of lightly spiced chai or a warm vanilla latte to complement the cinnamon notes. These sides elevate the entire experience without overpowering the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun with this Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe. Try serving it on a rustic wooden cake stand or a sleek glass platter for a modern twist. Add fresh rose petals around the base for a romantic feel, or pair with mini heart-shaped cupcakes for a cute dessert platter. You could even write a sweet message on the cake in frosting or use edible glitter for an extra sparkle effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, store your Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days. Make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving so the buttercream softens to that perfect, creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this cake ahead of time, you can freeze the unfrosted layers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and decorating. Alternatively, freeze the fully assembled and frosted cake covered with plastic wrap and foil; just allow it to thaw slowly in the fridge to maintain the integrity of the buttercream.
Reheating
Since this is a cake best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, take the cake out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving to let it soften naturally. This ensures the buttercream remains luscious and the texture stays perfect.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake batter instead of box mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe uses box mix for convenience, a homemade white cake batter with added cinnamon extract can elevate flavors brilliantly if you prefer making everything from scratch.
What can I substitute for cinnamon extract if I don’t have any?
If cinnamon extract isn’t available, ground cinnamon is a great substitute. Use about 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon mixed thoroughly into the batter for that warm cinnamon aroma and taste.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the unsalted butter in the buttercream for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil-based spread, and use a plant-based cream alternative. Just make sure to check that your cake mix and other ingredients are compatible with dairy-free diets.
How do I prevent the buttercream from being too sweet?
To balance the sweetness, make sure your butter is unsalted and use heavy whipping cream in the frosting. You can also reduce powdered sugar slightly, but be cautious as it affects texture. A touch of salt in the buttercream can help cut through the sweetness nicely.
Can I prepare this cake a day ahead of time?
Yes! This Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe actually tastes better after sitting a day to let the flavors meld. Just store it covered in the fridge and bring it out about 30 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe that makes it impossible not to smile when you bake and share it. From its warm, fragrant cinnamon layers to the silky pink frosting topped with charming decorations, this cake is a celebration of both flavor and love. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it with your favorite people, and make sweet memories around each slice!
Print
Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Valentine Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is a delicious, festive dessert perfect for celebrating love and special occasions. Moist and flavorful white cake layers infused with warm cinnamon extract are frosted generously with creamy vanilla buttercream tinted with pink gel food coloring. Decorated with Valentine’s Day sprinkles, red rock candy sticks, marshmallow hearts, and foiled chocolate hearts, this cake is as visually stunning as it is tasty.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 boxes white cake mix
- 8 large egg whites
- 2 ½ cups water
- 1 cup canola oil
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon extract
Vanilla Buttercream
- 3 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 5 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pink gel food coloring, as needed
Decorations
- 1 disposable piping bag
- 1 large piping bag with star tip
- Valentine’s Day sprinkles
- 3 red rock candy sticks
- 2 red heart marshmallow sticks
- Red foiled chocolate hearts
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, egg whites, water, canola oil, and cinnamon extract. Mix using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, then pour the batter evenly into the pans. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Make Vanilla Buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with heavy whipping cream, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add pink gel food coloring a little at a time until the desired shade of pink is achieved.
- Assemble and Decorate: Once the cakes are cooled, level the layers if needed. Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread an even layer of vanilla buttercream on top. Continue stacking remaining layers with frosting in between. Use the disposable piping bag with the star tip to pipe decorative swirls and rosettes over the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with Valentine’s Day sprinkles, red rock candy sticks, red heart marshmallow sticks, and red foiled chocolate hearts as desired for a festive look.
Notes
- Make sure cake layers are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- You can substitute butter with margarine if preferred, but it may affect taste and texture slightly.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon in addition to the cinnamon extract.
- Use gel food coloring rather than liquid to avoid thinning out the buttercream.
- Store the finished cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
