Pisces Vanilla Cream Cake

Name: Pisces Vanilla Cream Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

I absolutely adore this Pisces Vanilla Cream Cake! It's my go-to dessert for celebrations and family gatherings. The beautifully light and airy vanilla cake is paired with a luscious cream that makes every bite a heavenly experience. I've spent years perfecting this recipe, tweaking the balance of flavors until it felt just right. Each layer of cake is soaked in a gentle vanilla syrup, which keeps it moist while complementing the rich cream. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or for a cozy family dinner, this cake never fails to impress!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:45:29.455Z

When I first made this cake, I was experimenting with flavors and wanted to create something that was both simple and elegant. The result was this airy vanilla cake that truly shines with its creamy frosting. I also learned the importance of letting the cake layers cool completely before frosting, which prevents the cream from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

Another tip I discovered is to use high-quality vanilla extract. The depth of flavor really elevates the cake from just good to absolutely indulgent. It’s amazing how a few quality ingredients can transform a recipe, making it memorable and delightful for everyone who gets to enjoy it!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor enhanced with creamy frosting
Perfectly balanced sweetness that suits all occasions

Mastering the Vanilla Cake

Achieving a light and fluffy texture in the vanilla cake requires careful attention to the creaming method. Start by beating the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This aeration is crucial for lift, ensuring that your cake rises beautifully and has that melt-in-your-mouth quality. If you find the batter too dry, adding a bit more milk can create a smoother consistency without compromising the structure.

When incorporating eggs into the batter, add them one at a time. This allows for better emulsification and prevents the mixture from curdling. If you notice clumps forming, don’t worry; continue mixing until the batter is uniform. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally, ensuring that no dry flour remains clumped at the bottom. This process enhances the overall texture, leading to a velvety and moist crumb.

Perfecting the Vanilla Syrup

The vanilla syrup plays a pivotal role in enhancing the moisture and flavor of the cake. To achieve a well-balanced syrup, bring the water and sugar to a boil while stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar completely. Once the mixture simmers, allow it to cook for just 5 minutes, as overcooking can lead to a thicker syrup that might make the cake soggy. A perfectly made syrup should be pourable, without any crystallization, when it cools.

I recommend tasting the syrup before using it; if you prefer a more intense vanilla flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of vanilla extract to your liking. Additionally, if you're looking for a twist, consider adding a splash of almond extract for a unique flavor profile that complements the vanilla beautifully. Store any leftover syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks; it’s excellent for drizzling over pancakes or waffles too!

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup milk

For the Cream Frosting

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For Vanilla Syrup

1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Make the Vanilla Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Prepare the Cream Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Brush with vanilla syrup and then spread a layer of cream frosting. Place the second cake layer on top, brush with syrup, and frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining cream.

Chill and Serve

Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy your delightful Pisces Vanilla Cream Cake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit or jam between the cake layers. It enhances the moisture and adds a delightful burst of flavor with each bite.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Pisces Vanilla Cream Cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid climate, chilling the cake in the refrigerator is a better option, though it may slightly change the texture of the cream frosting. For longer storage, freeze the unassembled cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, where they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the cake again, let the layers thaw at room temperature for about an hour before frosting or serving. This helps retain moisture and ensures the flavors are at their best. Just remember that once frosted, the cake should be consumed within a week if stored in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

This cake makes a stunning centerpiece, especially if garnished with fresh berries or a dusting of edible flowers. For an elegant finish, you can drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the top or add a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast against the sweetness of the cream. Additionally, pairing slices of cake with a scoop of vanilla or berry sorbet can elevate the dining experience, offering a refreshing complement to the rich flavors.

If you have any vanilla syrup left, serve it alongside the cake for guests to drizzle at their discretion. This not only enhances the moisture but also allows each person to customize their slice. With its soft texture and rich flavor, this cake is also delightful alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee, making it a versatile option for both gatherings and everyday celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of extract?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with almond or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to a month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream alternative.