Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake

Name: Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4-6 tbsp heavy cream; Gel food coloring (blue, purple, black)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

We’re absolutely delighted to share this Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake with you! As someone who loves the beauty of the cosmos, I wanted to bring that wonder into a dessert. This cake is not just visually stunning, but it also delights the taste buds with its rich flavors and moist texture. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging, this cake will surely impress. Join us in creating a piece of the universe right in your kitchen!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:33:35.887Z

As I was brainstorming ideas for this cake, I drew inspiration from the breathtaking colors of the night sky. I wanted to create something that not only looks enchanting but also embodies layers of deep flavors. I decided to incorporate blueberry and chocolate cake layers, which complement each other beautifully. Every slice reveals the galaxy's vibrant colors with a sense of mystery that makes it truly unique.

While developing this recipe, I found that using gel food coloring gives the cake a much brighter and truer color compared to liquid colorings. It’s essential to mix the colors in a swirl pattern to achieve that galaxy effect. Each layer adds a new nuance, making this cake more than just a dessert; it's an experience!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Mesmerizing galaxy-inspired design that dazzles on any table
Delectable flavor combination of chocolate and fruity notes
Perfect for birthdays, themed parties, or any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake plays a significant role, especially the unsweetened cocoa powder. It not only provides a rich chocolate flavor but also contributes to the cake's moistness. If you're in a pinch, consider substituting it with Dutch-process cocoa for a smoother taste. Similarly, buttermilk is essential for adding moisture and a slight tang, which balances the sweetness of the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, a mix of milk and vinegar can serve as a fitting substitute.

The use of gel food coloring is crucial for achieving the vibrant hues of the galaxy theme. Gel colors have a more concentrated pigment than liquid ones, which means you can achieve deeper shades without thinning the frosting. When mixing colors, start with small amounts and gradually increase until you obtain the desired shades. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it out, so proceed with caution!

Perfecting Your Technique

When preparing the cake batter, it's vital to mix the wet and dry ingredients gradually. This method promotes a smooth batter without overmixing, which can make the cake tough. The inclusion of boiling water is also a key step; it not only helps dissolve the cocoa powder but also activates the baking powder and baking soda, resulting in a light, fluffy cake. You should see bubbles forming as you mix, indicating that the leavening agents are working.

During the frosting stage, be sure to whip the butter until it’s light and fluffy, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This aeration is crucial for achieving a creamy texture that will hold its shape when frosted. When adding the heavy cream, start with a minimal amount; too much can make your frosting too soft to maintain the desired design. Use a spatula to create galaxy swirls, mixing colors gently to avoid blending them completely, which preserves the distinct layers.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake is completed, it can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature if kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it can last for about a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

This cake is incredibly versatile for various occasions. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate each slice. For added texture, sprinkle crushed cookies or edible glitter on top before serving. I recommend cutting the cake into smaller slices for parties, so guests can enjoy the eye-catching layers and flavors without overwhelming portions.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients and prepare for a cosmic baking adventure!

For the Cake:

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

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
4-6 tbsp heavy cream
Gel food coloring (blue, purple, black)

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to create your marvelous cake!

Instructions

Let’s start building this cosmic masterpiece!

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In another large bowl, beat the sugar and oil until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract and buttermilk. Gradually add the dry mixture and boiling water, mixing until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Divide your batter evenly into two prepared 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined. Add vanilla and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy. Divide the frosting into smaller bowls and color with gel food coloring to create galaxy hues.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then carefully place the second layer. Frost the entire cake, then use a spatula to create swirls of color, emulating a galaxy theme.

Decorate and Serve

Add any final decorations, such as edible glitter or stars, to enhance the galaxy effect. Slice, serve, and enjoy the beauty and flavors of this delectable cake!

Don’t forget to enjoy every slice together with friends or family!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with the food coloring to achieve the desired galaxy effect. Always let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting. For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake comes out dense instead of fluffy, it may have been overmixed or baked for too long. Always fold in the dry ingredients gently and keep a close eye on the baking time—check for doneness at the lower end of the time range to avoid dry cake.

Another common problem is frosting that is too soft. If this occurs, adding a bit more powdered sugar can help thicken it up. It’s also important to ensure your butter is softened properly; if it’s too warm, your frosting will lose its structure. As a tip, chill the frosted cake for about 20-30 minutes before creating swirls for a more stable base.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? You can create a different flavor profile by substituting some of the cocoa powder with ground espresso for a mocha flavor twist. Alternatively, you could use a fruit-flavored cake mix and add complementary flavors to the frosting for a lighter dessert.

For a vegan version, explore using flax eggs in place of traditional eggs, and substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with vinegar. The frosting can be made with vegan butter and coconut cream to maintain that delightful creaminess while keeping it plant-based.

Elegant Presentation Tips

To enhance the galaxy theme, consider using edible stars, shimmer dust, or even edible glitter to give your cake that cosmic sparkle. When assembling the cake, place it on a decorative stand or a light-up base to truly make it stand out during celebrations.

You might also want to create a themed dessert table by incorporating space-inspired treats—think star-shaped cookies or jello planets. This cohesive presentation elevates your Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake, making it the centerpiece of any party while enhancing the entire aesthetic experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How long will the cake last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this cake will last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use other flavors for the frosting?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like raspberry or vanilla for a unique taste.

→ Is it possible to make mini versions of this cake?

Definitely! Use smaller cake pans and adjust baking time accordingly.