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; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Pisces Coffee Cake when I want to treat myself and my friends to something special. The combination of rich, moist cake with warm spices creates a delightful experience with every bite. Served alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, this cake becomes the centerpiece of any gathering. The secret to its incredible flavor lies in the use of cream cheese, which adds a wonderful richness and depth to the cake. Trust me, once you take a slice, you'll be coming back for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T21:33:27.904Z

One afternoon, while searching for a unique dessert for a gathering, I stumbled upon the idea of a coffee cake tailored just for Pisces. I experimented with various spices and flavors, finally landing on a balanced blend that harmonizes beautifully with coffee. The cake itself stayed incredibly moist, thanks to the layers of cream cheese and a special cinnamon topping, and I knew I had created something extraordinary.

As my friends took their first bites, I watched their expressions change to delight as they enjoyed the soft, fluffy texture mingled with the warmth of the spices. The addition of nuts added the perfect crunch, and now, this recipe is a staple in my baking repertoire!

Why You Will Love This Pisces Coffee Cake
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Unique blend of spices that elevate the flavor profile
Perfect for sharing with friends over coffee or tea

The Role of Cream Cheese

In this Pisces Coffee Cake, cream cheese is a game-changer. It not only adds moisture and richness, giving the cake a tender crumb, but it also balances the sweetness of the sugar. Cream cheese contributes a slight tanginess, which complements the warm spices perfectly. If you're looking for a lighter texture, you can use Neufchâtel cheese as a lower-fat alternative, achieving a similar flavor while reducing calories.

When creaming the butter and cream cheese together, aim for a light and fluffy consistency. This aeration is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Be sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps; softening it in the microwave for 10 seconds can help if you're short on time.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to experiment with the spices based on your preference! While cinnamon is the star here, nutmeg or even a hint of allspice can be delightful additions. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts from the topping—try incorporating a mix of oats and brown sugar for a different crunch.

For a festive twist, consider adding dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apples, to the batter. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also add moisture to the cake, making it even more delectable.

Serving and Storing

This coffee cake is best served warm, ideally fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. If you're looking to prepare it in advance, the cake can be made a day ahead, then stored tightly covered to maintain its moisture. You can also freeze individual slices for up to three months. Just wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container—the perfect solution for unexpected guests or a quick coffee break treat.

For an extra touch when serving, dust the top with powdered sugar just before presenting it to friends. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience even further, making every slice more indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, combining until just blended.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. Set aside.

Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Sprinkle half of the topping mixture on top. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the topping. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite coffee.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting on top of the cooled cake. You can also substitute the walnuts with chocolate chips for a different, indulgent twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake sinks in the middle, it may be due to overmixing the batter or inaccurate measuring of ingredients. To prevent this, mix only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Always check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer; some ovens may run hotter or cooler than indicated, affecting the baking time.

Another common issue is a dry cake. This can happen if you bake it too long or at too high a temperature. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, tent the cake with aluminum foil while it's baking to protect it from direct heat.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling up this coffee cake is straightforward. For a double batch, you can use a 9x13-inch baking pan; just extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. The larger surface area will cook the cake more evenly, and don’t forget to adjust your topping quantities accordingly.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can use a smaller cake pan, such as a 6-inch round pan. Just decrease the baking time, starting with a 20-minute check, until a toothpick comes out clean. Smaller cakes make delightful gifts or allow for sampling different variations without a lot of leftovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even leave them out for a nut-free version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, but it’s best to bake it fresh for the best texture.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but check for measurements as they may vary.