Pisces Coffee Cake

Name: Pisces Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons brewed coffee; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

I absolutely love baking, and this Pisces Coffee Cake is one of my all-time favorites! The rich flavors and moist texture make it perfect for any occasion, whether I'm enjoying a quiet morning or hosting friends for brunch. I particularly enjoy the balance of sweetness and warmth of spices that come together beautifully in every bite. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee. It’s a delightful treat that never fails to impress, and I can't wait for you to try making it yourself!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:06:27.540Z

When I first made the Pisces Coffee Cake, I was blown away by how easy it was and how incredible it tasted! The spices harmonize so well with the moist crumb, creating a cake that’s great any time of day. Using quality ingredients, like fresh spices and good coffee, really elevates the flavor. The drizzle of coffee glaze on top adds just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the taste.

Over the years, I’ve played around with the recipe, experimenting with different nuts and toppings. I found that adding a hint of vanilla extract really enhances the flavor profile. Each time I make it, I discover a little something new that makes this cake even more special. Give it a try—you won't regret it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful crumb with a hint of warmth from spices
Perfectly balanced sweetness drizzled with coffee glaze
Great for serving at brunch or enjoying with afternoon coffee

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the moist and flavorful crumb in this Pisces Coffee Cake lies in the combination of buttermilk and melted butter. Buttermilk not only adds moisture but also activates the baking soda, helping the cake rise beautifully. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, a quick substitute can be made by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for about five minutes. This acidity will also enhance the cake's texture.

Spices play a crucial role in the flavor profile of this cake. The warmth from ground cinnamon and nutmeg creates a cozy, inviting aroma while adding depth to the sweetness. Be careful not to overdo it; a teaspoon of cinnamon and half a teaspoon of nutmeg provide a balanced warmth without overshadowing the cake's natural flavors. Opt for freshly ground spices if possible, as they tend to pack more flavor than pre-ground versions.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it's essential to combine them just until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing can lead to a dense, rubbery cake instead of the light and fluffy texture you want. Aim for a few gentle folds and scrapes at the bottom of the bowl, using a spatula. Additionally, consider using room temperature eggs and buttermilk for better emulsion and a smoother batter, resulting in a more uniform crumb.

When you bake the cake, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. Depending on your oven, baking times can vary; the cake should be golden brown with edges slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. Use the toothpick test—the inserted toothpick should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet batter. If you find the cake is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons brewed coffee
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, mix together the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is baked and cooled slightly, drizzle the coffee glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips

For extra texture, feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. This cake can also be served warm for a cozy treat.

Making the Glaze

The coffee glaze is what truly elevates this cake, adding a finishing touch that ties the flavors together. When mixing the ingredients for the glaze, start with a small bowl and whisk until smooth and glossy. If the glaze is too thick, add an extra half teaspoon of brewed coffee at a time until you achieve your desired drizzling consistency. For an added texture element, consider a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts on top of the glaze before it sets.

After drizzling the glaze, let it set for at least 10 minutes before slicing the cake. This allows the glaze to firm up slightly, creating a beautiful finish and preventing it from running off the sides. Consider serving the cake slightly warm as this will enhance the moistness and make the glaze more delightful, melting beautifully into each slice.

Storage and Variations

If you have leftovers (which, trust me, is often unlikely!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended storage, consider wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it for up to three months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight, or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving again.

Feel free to experiment with variations of this recipe! Adding a layer of fresh berries between the batter and glaze can introduce a delightful tartness. Alternatively, stir in a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture. For a seasonal twist, try incorporating a teaspoon of pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg in the autumn months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance, and glaze it right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.