Description
A stunning and versatile buttercream graduation cake perfect for any celebration. Featuring moist cake layers, rich buttercream frosting, and creative decorating options, this cake is the perfect centerpiece for your party table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 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
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:
- In a stand mixer, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat on low speed.
- Mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream until the frosting reaches a smooth, pipeable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Level the cake layers using a serrated knife. Spread a thin crumb coat of buttercream over the cake and chill for 30 minutes.
- Add a final layer of buttercream and smooth it with an offset spatula. Decorate with piping, toppers, or edible decorations as desired.
Notes
- For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Leftover buttercream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Customize the cake with colors or decorations that match the graduate’s school or personality.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 38
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 58
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 95
Keywords: Graduation cake, buttercream cake, celebration cake, party dessert, homemade cake, graduation recipes