Pisces Caramel Cake

Name: Pisces Caramel Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

When it comes to baking, nothing makes me happier than whipping up a rich and decadent cake. The Pisces Caramel Cake is a special treat that I love to prepare for gatherings or to celebrate simply being together. With layers of buttery caramel and moist cake, every bite feels like a warm hug. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, especially when shared with friends who appreciate the little indulgences in life.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:03:28.483Z

This Pisces Caramel Cake was born out of my desire to create a nostalgic flavor profile that brings back childhood memories. I remember drizzling caramel on everything, and this cake encapsulates that sweetness perfectly. The secret lies in using brown sugar for the caramel, which gives it a depth that white sugar simply cannot match.

During the baking process, I noticed that letting the cake cool completely before frosting it really makes a difference in texture. It ensures that the frosting stays smooth and doesn’t melt. Taking that extra time introduces the perfect balance of flavors and ensures a delightful experience with each slice.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of rich caramel flavor
Moist, fluffy cake that pairs perfectly with the sweetness
A show-stopping dessert for any occasion

Mastering the Caramel Sauce

Caramel can be a tricky endeavor for many home bakers, but with a few tips, you’ll be able to nail it. When heating the sugar and water, keep a close eye on the mixture. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, do not stir it, as this can cause crystallization. Instead, gently swirl the pan as it cooks. Look for a rich, deep amber color—this is crucial for achieving that robust flavor. If you push it too far and it burns, you’ll need to start over.

Adding heavy cream to the hot caramel can lead to splattering, so I recommend pouring it in slowly while stirring continuously. This will create a smooth, glossy sauce without any lumps. Keep in mind that the consistency may thicken as it cools, so if you prefer a pourable sauce, you can reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of cream to loosen it up.

Choosing the Right Flour

In this cake, all-purpose flour is your go-to choice, as it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you're looking to try a gluten-free alternative, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. These blends are typically made from a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, which mimic the texture of traditional flour and yield great results when baking.

Remember to measure your flour accurately; using the spoon-and-level method prevents adding excess flour, which could lead to a dense cake. Additionally, make sure to sift the flour along with the baking powder and salt before mixing. This step ensures even distribution, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.

Storage and Serving Recommendations

Once your Pisces Caramel Cake is assembled, it can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. To keep it fresh and moist, cover the cake with a cake dome or wrap it in plastic wrap. If you need to keep it longer, it's best to refrigerate it for up to a week. For optimal texture, allow cold slices to come to room temperature before serving, as the cake’s crumb is more tender when warmed slightly.

For an exquisite presentation, consider garnishing the cake with a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel drizzle. This enhances the flavor profile and adds a bit of visual flair. Pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for those who appreciate a luxurious dessert experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Pisces Caramel Cake:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Caramel Sauce Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Pisces Caramel Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then stop stirring and let it boil until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over the first layer. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with more caramel sauce. Serve and enjoy!

Don't forget to save some caramel for drizzling on individual slices!

Pro Tips

Ensure your caramel sauce is at room temperature before using it for frosting to avoid melting the cake layers.

Tips for Leveling Cakes Evenly

For a cake that looks as good as it tastes, leveling your cakes is essential. If you find that your cakes have domed tops after baking, using a serrated knife to trim them while they’re still slightly warm can create an even surface. This will ensure that your layers stack nicely without wobbling, making assembly easier and more visually appealing.

Another option is to use baking strips, which are wet fabric strips that wrap around the baking pans before going into the oven. These help insulate the edges of the pans, resulting in even baking and reducing domed tops.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version of the Pisces Caramel Cake is delightful, feel free to experiment with flavors. For instance, adding cocoa powder to the dry ingredients can transform the base into a chocolate cake that pairs beautifully with the caramel. Simply swap out 1/2 cup of flour for cocoa powder, and you’ll have a rich chocolate twist.

Moreover, incorporate flavors like espresso or almond extract into your caramel sauce or cake batter for a unique depth. A shot of espresso can enhance the complexity of the caramel, while almond will lend a lovely nuttiness to the final product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can work in a pinch, but homemade is always more flavorful!

→ How should I store the cake?

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerating it will extend its shelf life, but may affect the texture.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the individual cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before frosting.

→ What flavors pair well with this cake?

A sprinkle of sea salt on top or a side of whipped cream complements the caramel beautifully.