Astrology Pisces Cake

Name: Astrology Pisces Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; Juice of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I recently embarked on a delicious journey to create the Astrology Pisces Cake, and it has become a delightful centerpiece for my gatherings. Inspired by the artistic and whimsical attributes of Pisces, this cake features layers of flavor that are as dreamy as the zodiac sign itself. With its rich chocolate base and zesty orange frosting, this dessert not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also sparks conversation among friends about astrology. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just indulging, this cake will surely impress everyone!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:55:17.915Z

Throughout my culinary adventures, I love experimenting with flavors and themes. When I decided to create the Astrology Pisces Cake, I envisioned a dessert that captured the essence of the dreamy Pisces spirit, which led me to blend chocolate and citrus. The combination results in a unique flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing.

During the process, I discovered that incorporating fresh orange zest not only enhances the cake’s flavor but also adds a lovely aroma while baking. It has become a signature twist in my dessert repertoire, making the Pisces Cake truly unforgettable for my friends!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Role of Ingredients

The Astrology Pisces Cake stands out due to its rich chocolate flavor, which comes from high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Opt for a Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper color and a more intense taste. The combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures that the cake rises perfectly, creating a soft and moist texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy frosting. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients without compromising the cake's structure.

In terms of frosting, the addition of fresh orange juice and zest elevates the flavor profile, making it zesty and refreshing. The marriage of citrus and chocolate is a classic combination, but using fresh ingredients instead of bottled options ensures vibrancy in taste. To achieve that light and airy texture in your frosting, it’s essential to whip the butter until it's fluffy and pale, which can take about 3-5 minutes on medium-high speed.

Techniques for Success

When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing after adding the wet ingredients. This can lead to a denser cake than desired. You want the batter to come together just until combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Once you stir in the boiling water, expect the batter to thin out, which might seem surprising, but this step helps maintain moisture. The cake layers should bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the edges start pulling away from the pan, usually between 30-35 minutes.

Ensure proper cooling before frosting, as a warm cake can melt the frosting, causing it to slide off. After the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, transferring them to wire racks is crucial. This cooling method allows air to circulate and prevents moisture build-up, ensuring your cake layers remain light and airy. For assembling, using an offset spatula to spread the frosting not only helps achieve a smoother finish but also allows for more control around the edges.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start making your cake:

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup heavy cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange

Make sure to prepare your ingredients in advance for an efficient baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your Astrology Pisces Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.

Combine with Boiling Water

Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin). Pour evenly into prepared pans.

Bake the Cake

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add heavy cream, vanilla, orange zest, and juice, and whip until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top, then add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.

Decorate

Optionally, decorate the cake with additional orange zest or edible glitter for a celestial touch!

Cut into slices and enjoy your Astrology Pisces Cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a hint of orange liqueur to the frosting. Also, let the cake cool completely before frosting to ensure the frosting doesn't melt!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Astrology Pisces Cake can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or special occasions. Once cooled completely, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to two months. If freezing, consider placing parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. When you're ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then frost just before your event for the freshest taste.

If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep the frosting intact, avoid slicing until you're ready to serve. If the cake dries out slightly, adding a drizzle of simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved) can help revive its moisture. Just brush the syrup onto the cake layers before adding frosting.

Decorating Ideas

While this cake shines on its own, the decoration can take your creation to the next level. For a celestial theme, think about using edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles to represent the dreamy nature of Pisces. You can also add fresh orange segments or thin slices on top for a burst of color. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings can enhance the visual appeal while adding that rich chocolate touch.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider layering the frosting with a flavored one, such as a vanilla or cream cheese frosting, beneath the orange frosting. This provides a delightful surprise in flavor while still keeping the primary zesty note. Don't hesitate to experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon or lime zest for variations in the frosting to suit your taste or occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

You can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but remember to adjust the measurement as it's less dense.

→ Is it possible to make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped at room temperature until you're ready to frost.

→ Can I substitute the orange with another flavor?

Yes, lemon or lime could be wonderful alternatives if you prefer a different citrus flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.