Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the heart-shaped cake pans with parchment paper.

Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time, then add 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.

Alternate dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture and 1 cup of whole milk, alternating between the two, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the two heart-shaped cake pans.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

In a saucepan, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not boil).

Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Allow the ganache to cool and thicken to room temperature.

Make the cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz cream cheese and 1/2 cup unsalted butter until smooth.

Gradually add 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar and beat until creamy and fluffy.

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Shape the cake: If necessary, trim the edges of the cakes using a sharp serrated knife to ensure the top is level. Place one of the cakes on a cake board or plate.

Add ganache: Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the first cake layer.

Layer the second cake: Place the second heart-shaped cake layer on top.

Frost the cake: Cover the entire cake with cream cheese frosting, smoothing the edges with an offset spatula.

Decorate: Use the remaining ganache to drizzle over the top or pipe decorative frosting if desired. You can also add edible decorations like fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles.

Let the cake set in the fridge for 30 minutes to ensure everything firms up.

Slice and serve to your loved ones, and enjoy the delicious chocolatey goodness!