Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake

Name: Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I always look forward to celebrating birthdays with a special cake that combines elegance and simplicity. The Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake is my go-to for such occasions. With its soft, fluffy layers and subtle flavors, it feels light yet festive. I love that this cake is easily customizable, allowing me to add personal touches that make each celebration unique. Whether it's for a themed birthday party or just a treat for someone special, this cake has quickly become a favorite in my baking repertoire.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:27:37.062Z

When I first created the Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake, I wanted to blend a sleek aesthetic with delicious flavors. I experimented with various layering techniques that not only enhanced the cake's look but also its taste. The result was a perfectly moist sponge contrasting wonderfully with a light, airy frosting.

One of my favorite tips is to chill the cake layers thoroughly before frosting. This not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the frosting set beautifully, giving it that professional finish. It’s paths like these that transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Sleek and modern design perfect for any occasion
Delicate flavors that appeal to all palates
Light and fluffy texture that feels indulgent yet refreshing

Understanding the Ingredients

The Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake is built on the foundation of simple yet high-quality ingredients. All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure for the cake, while the unsalted butter not only adds richness but also contributes to the cake's tender crumb. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, allowing for better incorporation of air, which leads to a lighter cake texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.

Granulated sugar adds sweetness but also influences the cake's texture. When sugar is creamed with butter, it creates small air pockets that contribute to the cake's fluffiness. Similarly, eggs provide moisture and act as a binding agent. If you need an egg substitute, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg needed. Both options will help keep the cake damp and flavorful.

Mastering Cake Assembly

Assembling the Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake is where your creativity can shine. After cooling, ensure that the layers are even by trimming the tops if domed. This will not only make stacking easier but also create a professional look. Spreading frosting between layers can be rewarding; try using an offset spatula for a smooth application. For a balanced flavor, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit or a jam that complements the cake, like raspberry or lemon curd, between the layers for a delightful surprise.

When frosting the cake, I recommend using a bench scraper to smooth the sides for a minimalist aesthetic. To prevent the frosting from crusting, keep it covered as you work on the cake. If you find the frosting too thick, add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream for a silkier texture. Once frosted, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before serving. This setting time not only helps the frosting adhere but also makes slicing easier, ensuring clean cuts without dragging the frosting.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have all ingredients ready and measured for ease of preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk until combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Layers

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl, whip the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until smooth. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until fluffy and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Decorate and Serve

For a minimalistic look, you can leave the frosting smooth or add subtle decorative touches. Slice the cake and serve to celebrate!

Enjoy your creation! This cake is perfect for birthdays or any festive gathering.

Pro Tips

For a more festive touch, consider adding edible glitter or fresh berries on top for decoration.

Customizing Your Cake

This cake's versatility shines in its customization options. You can easily modify the flavor by incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into the batter for a fresh twist. For chocolate lovers, substituting a part of the flour with cocoa powder can transform it into a delightful chocolate version. Be cautious with additions; maintain the cake's balance by not exceeding one cup of mix-ins to avoid a heavy texture.

Decorations can also bring a personal touch. For a more festive look without overwhelming the cake, consider using edible flowers or fresh berries on top. If you prefer a glossy finish, a simple glaze made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk can enhance the cake’s elegance while remaining minimalistic.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This cake can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy schedules. If you choose to prepare it in advance, tightly wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to a month. Allow the cake layers to defrost gradually in the fridge overnight before frosting. This keeps them moist while making them easier to handle.

When serving, keep in mind that the Minimal White Pisces Birthday Cake tastes best when at room temperature. Take it out of the fridge an hour before serving. If you're serving a crowd, consider cutting slices that are about 1-inch thick; this way, everyone can enjoy a piece without overwhelming their plate. Pair with a light tea or sparkling water to complement the subtle flavors of the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to frost.

→ What type of frosting is best for this cake?

A buttercream frosting works beautifully, but you could also use cream cheese frosting for a tangy flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute any ingredients?

You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, and a dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option.