Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Pour the batter into the heart-shaped cake pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the cake completely on a wire rack before frosting with buttercream.

Decorate your cooled cake with playful red fondant shapes as desired.