Cupcakes are so cute in their natural state that it almost seems unnecessary to try and cute them up any more. Note that I said almost. This Crown Heart Cupcake Pan from Williams Sonoma does a fine job at doing just that. The muffin pan has heart-shaped depressions around the top of each cup, which allow the batter to spread into them as the cake batter cooks. This gives the muffins or cupcakes a heart-shaped, domed top. They’re perfect for your Valentine, but are just as adorable the rest of the time, so it’s one of the relatively few seasonal specialty pans that you can use on multiple occasions throughout the year.
The pan alone is $24. If you’re looking for something specifically for Valentine’s Day, you might be tempted to go for the special, which includes candy message toppers and a Sprinkles red velvet cake mix. Given that we’ve heard less-than-positive reviews of that mix brand, you’re better off saving a few more dollars and getting the candy toppers separately.
Emily
January 17, 2008This is one of those things that I think I will go out and buy this weekend. I love making cookies and such for Valentine’s Day, but I can see myself using this when I want something a little more unique than the typical cupcake shape. Shame its a bit expensive, but that’s Williams-Sonoma for you. 🙂
Diane R.
February 2, 2008Le Gourmet Chef has the pan for 16.99. I just bought it this afternoon and have a “test” batch of cupcakes in the oven right now! I wasn’t sure how full to fill the liners, will let you know my results.
Lauren
February 10, 2008Please tell me how you made these. I tried and they didn’t work out. How did you fill the pan? I think I might have filled it too much.
Thanks
Jessica
February 13, 2008The pan and cakes look adorable! I have tried several times to make them too and have not had success! I get a burnt heart and a big bubble cake in the middle! Not sure what the magic touch is so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
thank you!
Jessica
February 15, 2008I wrote to William Sonoma and here is the response they sent to me about how to bake a cupcake in this heart shaped pan:
“One suggestion for the flat appearance of the tops of the cupcakes is to gently flatten the tops of the cupcakes with a cookie sheet. When the cupcakes are finished cooking, take the cupcake pan out of the oven. Take the bottom of the cookie sheet and gently press the tops of the cupcakes to flatten without cracking to tops. You may have to repeat this several times to get the desired flatness.”
I have yet to try this but will let you know how I fare!
Thank you!
LeAnn
February 21, 2009Did anyone try the cookie sheet suggestion from WS? I haven’t ordered the pans yet, but was looking at them tonight since they are on sale. Thanks!