Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake

Name: Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Food coloring (optional)

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

When I think of celebrations, the Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake always comes to mind. I love its rich, creamy frosting and the soft, moist sponge that sits beneath. Baking this cake fills my kitchen with delightful aromas, and when I serve it, everyone gathers around with excitement. It's a treat that brings joy to any occasion, and I can’t resist that first slice. The combination of flavors and textures is something I look forward to every time I whip it up for friends and family.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:43:36.485Z

Creating the Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake has become a cherished tradition in my home. I remember the first time I attempted it; the anticipation was palpable. The combination of butter, sugar, and eggs in the batter creates a wonderfully fluffy texture that is simply irresistible. To top it off, the buttercream icing adds a luscious sweetness that envelops the cake beautifully.

Over the years, I’ve learned that room temperature ingredients work wonders for the cake's overall rise and fluffiness. Ensuring everything is at the right temperature might take a few extra minutes, but believe me, it's worth it for that perfect, light texture.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Decadent buttercream that melts in your mouth
Moist cake perfectly balanced with sweetness
Eye-catching design, perfect for celebrations

The Key to Perfect Cake Layers

To achieve the perfect cake layers for your Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake, ensure that your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar. This creates a fluffy texture, allowing air to incorporate effectively. Mix only until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. Keep an eye on your cakes in the oven; they should be lightly golden on top and spring back when touched lightly.

If you're unsure about doneness, perform the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the cake’s center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Refrain from opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause your cakes to sink. Letting them cool in the pans for ten minutes helps to stabilize them, making it easier to transfer to a wire rack without breakage.

Buttercream Variations and Tips

The buttercream frosting is where you can get creative with flavors and colors. To make it even more decadent, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness or incorporating melted chocolate for a rich chocolate buttercream. Seasonal flavors, such as peppermint extract during the holidays or citrus zest for a refreshing twist, can elevate your frosting game and match the occasion perfectly.

If your frosting seems too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it is too runny, a bit more powdered sugar can help thicken it up. For a smoother finish, use a bench scraper or an offset spatula to smooth the sides after frosting; it gives your cake a professional look!

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients to make this delightful cake.

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

Make sure to check that all ingredients are fresh and at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in milk and vanilla. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a burst of flavor, consider adding citrus zest to the buttercream or incorporating fruit layers between the cake layers.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can make the cake layers ahead of time, which is a great time-saver for busy schedules. Once cooled completely, wrap each cake layer in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage, up to a month. To thaw, simply leave them in the fridge overnight before frosting.

The buttercream frosting can also be prepared in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip with a mixer to restore its fluffy texture before spreading it on your cake.

Decorative Ideas

This Classic Buttercream Pisces Cake is a canvas for creativity! For a thematic celebration, consider using edible glitter, sprinkles, or themed cake toppers that resonate with the occasion, like rainbow-colored candy or vibrant fruit slices. You can also pipe decorations using different tips to create elegant swirls, rosettes, or even simple borders around the cake.

For an extra touch, garnish the plate with fresh fruit or a drizzle of melted chocolate to enhance both presentation and flavor. Don't forget to slice and serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge. Frost it on the day you plan to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of butter in the frosting?

You can substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a tangy twist on the frosting.