Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a heart-shaped cake pan. If you're using round pans, grease and flour two 9-inch round pans.

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with ½ cup milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined and smooth.

Pour the batter into the prepared heart-shaped (or round) cake pan(s), smoothing out the top with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy.

Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then beat until smooth and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top of that.

Cover the entire cake with frosting, using a spatula to create smooth edges.

Decorate with optional toppings like fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles. Get creative!

Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious heart-shaped cake with friends and family!