High School Graduation Cake (Printable)

A festive vanilla sponge with smooth buttercream, gold foil highlights, and a diploma-themed topper, perfect for celebrations.

# What you need:

→ Cake

01 - 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 4 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 cup whole milk, room temperature

→ Buttercream Frosting

09 - 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
10 - 5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
12 - 3 to 4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
13 - Pinch of salt

→ Decorations

14 - Edible gold foil sheets
15 - 1 diploma-shaped cake topper
16 - Sprinkles or star confetti, optional

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
05 - Alternately add flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
06 - Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops.
07 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
09 - Beat butter on high speed until creamy and pale, approximately 3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla, salt, and enough milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
10 - Level cooled cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a thick layer of buttercream on top, then place second layer over it.
11 - Apply a thin crumb coat layer of frosting around the cake. Chill for 30 minutes.
12 - Frost cake smoothly with remaining buttercream.
13 - Using tweezers, carefully apply edible gold foil sheets to desired areas on the cake for a luxurious appearance.
14 - Place the diploma topper at the center or side of the cake. Add sprinkles or confetti if desired.
15 - Chill briefly to set, then serve at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect for celebrations: This festive cake is designed specifically for graduation parties and creates a stunning centerpiece
  • Elegant yet approachable: The edible gold foil and diploma topper give it a sophisticated look without requiring professional decorating skills
  • Classic vanilla flavor: A crowd-pleasing taste that appeals to guests of all ages
  • Customizable: Easy to personalize with school colors, different toppings, or flavor variations
  • Make-ahead friendly: Components can be prepared in advance, making party planning easier
02 -
  • Measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off—scooping directly can pack too much flour and create a dry cake
  • Don't overmix the batter once you add the flour; mix just until no streaks remain to keep the cake tender
  • Use a cake leveler or serrated knife to trim domed tops for perfectly flat, stable layers
  • A rotating cake turntable makes frosting much easier and helps achieve smooth, professional-looking sides
  • Apply gold foil in a pattern or scattered randomly for different aesthetic effects—less is often more for an elegant look
  • Always double-check decorations and gold foil packaging for allergen information, especially if serving guests with dietary restrictions
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