graduation cake
A delightful graduation cake featuring layers of vanilla and chocolate, decorated with a fondant cap and diploma. This cake is perfect for celebrating academic achievements.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
- Add the softened butter and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the buttermilk and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. In one bowl, sift in the cocoa powder and mix well until fully incorporated.
- Layer chocolate and vanilla batter into each greased cake pan, creating swirls if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the heavy cream to stiff peaks, gradually adding powdered sugar.
- Once cooled, place one layer on a serving platter, frost, and repeat with remaining layers.
- Decorate the cake with fondant decorations or sprinkles.
- Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make cake layers in advance. Store in the fridge or freeze. Use room temperature ingredients for best results.