Pisces Coffee Cake

Name: Pisces Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I’ve always been a fan of coffee cakes, and this Pisces Coffee Cake is a standout in my collection. With its tender crumb and the perfect balance of flavors, each slice invites you to enjoy a moment of indulgence alongside your favorite brew. The harmonious blend of cinnamon and nutmeg with the earthy notes of coffee truly brings this cake to life. I love how easy it is to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both lazy weekends and unexpected guests alike.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T20:34:27.760Z

While perfecting the Pisces Coffee Cake, I experimented with several spices to find the right balance. I found that just the right amount of cinnamon combined with fragrant nutmeg creates a delightful aroma as it bakes. I also discovered that using freshly brewed coffee instead of water elevates the flavor profile significantly, making each bite richer and more satisfying than the standard recipe.

This cake has become a staple during my gatherings, and I love seeing friends savor the warm, inviting taste. The secret? I always serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. This makes each slice feel extra special, perfect for sharing over a cup of coffee.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Deliciously spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg
Perfect companion to your favorite coffee or tea

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour with both granulated and brown sugar provides a wonderful flavor and texture balance. Granulated sugar helps the cake rise by incorporating air during the creaming process, while brown sugar adds moisture and richness due to its molasses content. Together, they create a cake that is not only sweet but also richly flavored.

Using brewed coffee as an ingredient enhances the overall taste profile of this cake. It doesn’t only contribute to the cake's moistness but also intensifies the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a more complex taste. If you do not have coffee on hand, you can substitute it with strong brewed tea or a coffee alternative, although the flavor will slightly differ.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing the batter, it's crucial to cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is key to achieving a tender crumb. Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake. Aim just to combine until you no longer see dry flour.

For even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the cake inside. An oven thermometer can help ensure your temperatures are accurate, as baking is sensitive to even slight changes in heat. The cake is done when the edges pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean – typically around the 30-35 minute mark.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the Pisces Coffee Cake:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you are ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Pisces Coffee Cake:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the brewed coffee. Stir in the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Now you can enjoy your freshly baked Pisces Coffee Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Serving and Storing

After baking, allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan helps it set properly, preventing it from crumbling when transferred. You can enjoy it warm, or let it cool completely and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. This coffee cake pairs excellently with a scoop of whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche if you want to elevate it further.

If you're considering storing leftovers, ensure the cake is completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap. This will maintain its moisture. The cake can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for about a week. For longer storage, it freezes well wrapped tightly in foil or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Variations and Add-Ins

While this Pisces Coffee Cake is delightful as is, you can easily customize it. Adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, will give a lovely crunch and additional flavor. If you prefer a fruity twist, mixing in a cup of blueberries or chopped apples can enhance sweetness and moisture.

Another variation is to create a streusel topping for a delightful crunch. Mix together a bit more brown sugar, flour, butter, and some oats, then sprinkle it on top of the batter before baking. This layer will create a wonderful contrast with the soft cake base and add an extra dimension of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, you can use instant coffee dissolved in hot water as a substitute for brewed coffee.

→ How should I store the leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep well for 2-3 months.

→ Is there a vegan option for this cake?

You can substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk instead.