Raspberry Vanilla Pisces Cake

Name: Raspberry Vanilla Pisces Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh raspberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I absolutely adore this Raspberry Vanilla Pisces Cake! The combination of sweet raspberries and creamy vanilla makes my taste buds dance with joy. Each bite feels like a little celebration, thanks to the moist texture of the cake. I first baked this for a friend’s birthday, and it quickly became a favorite among our circle. The vibrant colors and luscious flavors make it perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant parties. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to have it on your dessert table every time!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:42:28.505Z

When I first conceptualized the Raspberry Vanilla Pisces Cake, I wanted to create something that perfectly blended tradition with a modern twist. I experimented with different ratios of raspberry to vanilla until I found the sweet spot. Adding a hint of lemon zest elevated the flavor, making each bite refreshing yet indulgent. This cake has become a staple in my kitchen, and I always receive compliments whenever I serve it.

One key tip I discovered is to use fresh raspberries for a burst of flavor, but frozen ones work too if you’re in a pinch. The visual appeal is the finishing touch—so don't skip on the garnish! A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few whole raspberries on top not only look stunning but also enhance the experience when you cut the cake. It’s definitely a treat that doesn’t last long!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously tangy raspberry flavor balances perfectly with creamy vanilla
Light and moist texture that invites a second slice
A stunning centerpiece for any celebration or gathering

Understanding Ingredients

The key to a successful Raspberry Vanilla Pisces Cake lies in the quality of ingredients. When selecting raspberries, opt for fresh, plump berries that are deep in color. Avoid any that look mushy or have mold. Using fresh raspberries not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds beautiful streaks of red throughout the cake, making it visually appealing. If fresh berries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones; just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before folding them into the batter.

The butter and sugar combination is crucial for creating a light, fluffy cake texture. Ensure that the butter is at room temperature, as this helps it incorporate smoothly with sugar. A common mistake is to use cold butter, which leads to a denser cake. Creaming the butter and sugar properly – about 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy – will introduce air into the mixture, giving the cake its desired lift and softness.

Baking Tips

When it comes to baking the cake, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the pan inside. An underheated oven can result in uneven baking, causing the cake to sink or become gummy. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking; it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. This typically takes between 30 to 35 minutes, depending on your oven's calibration.

Cooling the cake before frosting is essential for achieving smooth, even layers. If you frost a warm cake, the heat will cause the frosting to melt, resulting in a gooey mess. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, the whipped cream frosting can be spread easily, creating a beautiful finish that complements the tangy raspberries.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh raspberries for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients alternatively with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Fold in Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to over-mix.

Bake the Cake

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

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting with whipped cream mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh raspberries before serving for an extra touch of beauty and flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the batter or frosting. It complements the raspberries beautifully!

Serving Suggestions

This Raspberry Vanilla Pisces Cake is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. For a casual setting, simply slice and serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a handful of extra raspberries on the side. If you're hosting a more formal gathering, consider plating individual slices with a drizzle of raspberry coulis for an elegant touch. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a charming finish and enhances the visual appeal.

For the ultimate indulgence, consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the cake's texture and balance between tangy and sweet. For a refreshing twist, add a sprig of mint to each plate, elevating the presentation and adding a pop of color to your dessert spread.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning ahead, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just bake and cool it completely as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture, and store it at room temperature. However, if you're storing it for longer than a day, it's best to refrigerate it. The whipped cream frosting is best prepared the same day you plan to serve the cake, as it holds its shape better when freshly whipped.

To freeze the cake, slice it first, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. This makes it easy to enjoy a piece whenever you crave it! When ready to enjoy, allow the slices to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For an added layer of flavor, drizzle the thawed slice with a little warm raspberry sauce before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen raspberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before folding them into the batter.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure that it includes a binding agent.

→ What is the best way to serve this cake?

Serve chilled, and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.