Simple Graduation Cake: The Easiest Party Dessert!

Simple Graduation Cake dreams start here! Graduation season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate the special graduate in your life than with a delicious homemade cake? This Simple Graduation Cake recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. It’s easy to customize, and everyone will love its classic, comforting flavors.

Growing up, my mom always made a homemade cake for every special occasion. The smell of vanilla and sugar wafting from the oven is a memory I will forever cherish. This Simple Graduation Cake is a nod to those beautiful moments, a sweet celebration of achievement and the exciting adventures to come!

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Why You Will Love This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

This Simple Graduation Cake recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you are new to baking, you’ll find the instructions clear and simple to follow.

The cake is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the flavors and decorations to suit the graduate’s personal preferences. Think about their favorite colors or school mascot.

Plus, the classic vanilla flavor is universally appealing. This ensures everyone at your Graduation Party will enjoy a slice.

Baking this Simple Graduation Cake brings back so many memories of helping my mom in the kitchen. I still remember the first time I successfully frosted a cake. It felt like such an accomplishment! I hope this recipe brings you similar joy.

Ingredients Needed for This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional, for decorations)

For Decorations:

• Sprinkles
• Graduation themed toppers (e.g., graduation cap, diploma)
• Edible glitter (optional)

How to Make This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

1. 1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9 inch round cake pans. This will prevent your cake from sticking.

1. 2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

1. 3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results.

1. 4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

1. 5. Alternate Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

1. 6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. 7. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

1. 8. Make the Frosting: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

1. 9. Add Milk and Vanilla: Gradually beat in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

1. 10. Frost and Decorate: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, then carefully place the second layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

1. 11. Decorate: Decorate the cake with sprinkles, graduation themed toppers, and edible glitter as desired. Get creative and make it your own! If you are looking for more ideas, check out this Pink Graduation Cake 2! We also have a Silly Graduation Cake P 2 for inspiration.

How to Serve This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

Serve this Simple Graduation Cake chilled or at room temperature. Slice and serve as a delightful dessert at your Graduation Party. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. You can even drizzle it with chocolate sauce. Consider adding fresh berries for a burst of summery flavor and color.

How to Store This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: No need to reheat. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Tips to Make This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

• Ingredient Swaps: Use gluten free flour for a gluten free version.
• Success Tips: Make sure your butter is properly softened before starting the recipe.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
• Pro Tips: For a perfectly smooth frosting, sift the powdered sugar before using.

Helpful Notes for This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Vanilla Extract: Use a high quality pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Equipment: An electric mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier.

Variation of This Simple Graduation Cake Recipe

• Seasonal Twists: Add lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing summer flavor.
• Optional Versions: Try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Creative Modifications: Dye the frosting different colors to match the graduate’s school colors. Pink Graduation Cake offers another vibrant decorating idea. You can also create a themed cake by using cookie cutters to cut out fondant shapes and decorate the cake.

Conclusion

This Simple Graduation Cake is more than just a dessert, it’s a symbol of accomplishment and a sweet way to celebrate a major milestone. This classic vanilla cake is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake up a batch of happiness for your graduate. I hope you enjoy this Simple Graduation Cake as much as we do! Feel free to leave a comment below with your questions or variations. Happy baking!

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