Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake

Name: Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Gel food colors (blue, purple, pink, black); Edible glitter; Star-shaped sprinkles

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights

I love creating desserts that spark wonder, and the Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake is a perfect blend of creativity and flavors. Each layer is a canvas for swirling colors, evoking the mesmerizing beauty of the cosmos. As I prepared this cake, I experimented with various shades of blue and purple, capturing a galactic look that delights both the eyes and the palate. I can't wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy the heavenly taste that comes from the rich chocolate cake combined with delightful, colorful frosting!

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:01:35.769Z

When I decided to make this Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake, I wanted it to reflect the celestial beauty I've always admired. The combination of rich chocolate and colorful frosting created a visual masterpiece that was as delicious as it looked. I used a simple technique to create the galaxy effect, blending buttercream and using a star tip for that celestial sparkle.

As I assembled the cake, I realized how important it is to let the layers cool completely. This makes it easier to frost without the layers shifting. Trust me, this step is crucial for achieving that perfect, clean finish. With its stunning appearance and delectable taste, this cake is bound to impress any guest!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A stunning visual that brings the cosmos to your kitchen
Rich chocolate cake that satisfies every sweet tooth
Perfect for celebrations, guaranteed to wow your guests

Mastering the Chocolate Cake Layers

When preparing the chocolate cake layers, the key is in the mixing. Ensure all dry ingredients are well-combined for an even distribution of flavor and texture. I recommend using a whisk for dry ingredients before adding the wet ones; this helps prevent clumps of cocoa powder and results in a smoother batter.

The boiling water added at the end significantly enhances the cocoa flavor and creates a moist cake. It’s important to add this step right after mixing the wet ingredients, and be sure to mix until the batter is well-blended but do not overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.

Using three separate 9-inch cake pans will also help the layers bake more evenly. To prevent sticking, don’t forget to grease and flour your pans adequately. This ensures an easy release once the cakes are cool.

Creating Vibrant Galaxy Buttercream

When making the galaxy buttercream, achieving the right consistency is crucial. After beating the butter until creamy, gradually adding the powdered sugar helps maintain a fluffy texture. Start at low speed to avoid a sugary cloud, then increase the speed until the frosting is light and airy.

To achieve that dreamy galaxy effect, I recommend tinting your frosting in small batches. This allows for better control of colors. Use a toothpick to apply gel food coloring for precise shades, and mix in small amounts until the desired intensity is reached. Don’t worry if the colors seem muted at first; they will come to life once piped and swirled onto the cake.

Lastly, for the most visually stunning outcome, consider layering colors in your piping bag. This technique creates a marble effect when applying the frosting to the cake, allowing the colors to blend into a breathtaking galactic design.

Decoration and Presentation Tips

The finishing touches on your Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake are where the magic truly lies. After frosting, allow the cake to set for about 15-30 minutes at room temperature. This firms up the buttercream slightly, making it easier to decorate with edible glitter and star-shaped sprinkles without losing shape.

For an elegant finish, consider using a combination of gold and silver edible glitter alongside the bright colors. This adds depth and makes the cake more visually appealing. I like to sprinkle the glitter just before serving to maintain its sparkle, as it can lose its luster over time.

If you are looking to serve this cake for a gathering, slice it into wedges revealing the stunning layers inside, showcasing the galaxy theme with each piece. Pairing it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the chocolate cake.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake Layers

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Galaxy Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gel food colors (blue, purple, pink, black)

Decorations

Edible glitter
Star-shaped sprinkles

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla, and mix until smooth. Finally, stir in the boiling water until well blended.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly into three 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Galaxy Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, blending until fluffy. Divide the frosting into separate bowls and tint with different gel food colors to create a galaxy effect.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting between each cake layer and frost the sides and top of the cake. Use a spatula or a palette knife to create swirls of color and galaxy patterns.

Decorate

Finish by sprinkling edible glitter and adding star-shaped sprinkles to enhance the galaxy theme. Let the frosting set before serving.

Pro Tips

Make sure your butter for the frosting is at room temperature for easy blending. Experiment with different colors to make your frosting even more vibrant and representative of a galaxy!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare the Galaxy Themed Pisces Cake in advance, you can bake the chocolate layers a day or two ahead. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are completely cool before wrapping to avoid excess moisture.

The buttercream frosting can also be made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to a month. Just remember to let it come to room temperature and re-whip briefly before using for optimal texture.

Once decorated, this cake can be stored in the refrigerator but is best served at room temperature. Allow it to sit out for about an hour before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake layers dome up in the center while baking, it could be due to the oven temperature being too high. Make sure to calibrate your oven temperature; using an oven thermometer can avoid this common issue. Additionally, if you notice a dome, simply trim the top before frosting to create a flat surface for assembly.

When mixing the buttercream, if it appears too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually until achieving the desired consistency. Conversely, if it becomes too thick, a little heavy cream can help loosen it back up. The goal is a spreadable frosting that holds its shape without being gritty.

If the colors in the frosting seem too vibrant or if they bleed into each other upon decorating, consider using a stiff frosting technique. This means adding extra confectioners' sugar to achieve a thicker consistency, which will hold the colors in place better as you create the galactic design.

Fun Variations and Serving Suggestions

Explore different flavor profiles by substituting the chocolate cake with vanilla or even a spice cake base. Each layer will still provide a stunning visual impact when combined with the colorful galaxy frosting, while offering a unique twist to the traditional chocolate experience.

For an extra layer of texture, consider adding a filling between the cake layers. Chia seed jam, fruit purees, or even a layer of chocolate ganache can elevate the flavor profile and surprise your guests with a delightful burst of flavor.

Pair your cake with themed beverages like galaxy-inspired cocktails or sparkling lemonade. This enhances the overall experience and ties in beautifully with the visual concept you’re presenting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor cake?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake with vanilla or any other flavor you prefer!

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap until you're ready to frost and serve.

→ What decorations can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Use edible stars, galaxy-themed sprinkles, or even fondant shapes to enhance your cake's appearance.