Chocolate Chiffon Valentine Cake Tips
How can you make a heart-shaped cake without heart-shaped pans?
Heart-shaped pans make this recipe easier, but you can also make a heart-shaped cake by using one square cake plus a round cake of equal size. Cut both cakes into the layers needed, then cut the round cake in half. Place the half circles onto two neighboring sides of the square to form a heart.
Can you make chocolate chiffon Valentine cake ahead of time?
You can, but we don’t recommend making it more than 3 days ahead. If you really want a jumpstart on your cake, try freezing it. Wrap completely cooled cakes in plastic wrap (two layers don't hurt!) or store in resealable plastic freezer bags. You can also freeze cake in its pan, wrapping the pan entirely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Learn more about
storing cakes properly to keep them nice and fresh.
How do you pipe a decorative lattice design?
A set of piping tips can elevate any baked good. To help plan your design, first use a toothpick to gently draw lines you can follow later with the
piping bag. Use slow but firm pressure, holding the top of the bag with your dominant hand and guiding the bag with the other. If you make a mistake, no worries! Scrape the frosting off and return it to the bag. If you're not comfortable piping, spreading this sweet frosting in swoops is an
easier way to frost a cake that looks just as pretty.
—Maggie Knoebel, Taste of Home Associate Recipe Editor/Tester
Nutrition Facts
1 piece: 302 calories, 18g fat (8g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 210mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.