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Graduation Cakes with gold decorations and Class of 2024 topper

Stunning Graduation Cake Recipe


  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

A moist, fluffy graduation cake with creamy frosting, perfect for celebrating your graduate’s big day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Buttercream frosting (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

  • Prepare the pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  • Mix the batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
  • Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  • Decorate: Spread a crumb coat of buttercream on one layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. Add graduation-themed decorations.
  • Serve: Slice and enjoy your beautifully decorated graduation cake!

Notes

  • Make ahead: Bake the cake layers 1-2 days in advance and store them in the fridge.
  • Dietary swaps: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 38g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: graduation cakes, celebration cakes, party desserts, baking recipes, buttercream cakes