Ingredients

For the sponge cake:

• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter

• ½ cup (120 ml) milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tsp baking powder

• Pinch of salt

For the cream frosting:

• 500 g mascarpone cheese or cream cheese

• 250 ml heavy whipping cream

• ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For decoration:

• Whole almonds

• Assorted chocolates (heart-shaped, truffles, or pralines)

• Edible pink roses (or rose-shaped buttercream flowers)

• Fresh mint leaves

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Instructions

1. Bake the sponge cake

   • Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a heart-shaped cake pan.

   • Beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add oil, milk, and vanilla.

   • Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently.

   • Pour into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the cream frosting

   • Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.

   • In another bowl, beat mascarpone (or cream cheese) with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.

   • Fold whipped cream into mascarpone to create a light, fluffy frosting.

3. Assemble the cake

   • Slice the cake into 2–3 layers horizontally.

   • Spread cream frosting between each layer.

   • Cover the outside of the cake with frosting for a smooth finish.

4. Decorate beautifully

   • Arrange pink roses (or rose-shaped cream swirls) on top.

   • Add heart-shaped chocolates, whole almonds, and mint leaves for contrast.

   • Scatter a few extra chocolates and almonds around the serving plate.

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✨ Result: A romantic, heart-shaped cake perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any special celebration. It combines soft sponge, creamy frosting, crunchy almonds, and rich chocolates—all wrapped in an elegant floral design.