Graduation Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened (Can be substituted with margarine)
• 1 cup milk (Dairy or non-dairy alternatives can be used)
• 4 large eggs (Use egg substitute if vegan)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups buttercream frosting (Can use store-bought or homemade)
• 1 batch fondant (For a smooth finish)
• 2 tablespoons food coloring (Colors matching the school's theme)
• 1 cup edible decorations (Graduation caps, stars, or sprinkles)

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Cake Preparation ---

2. 2

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. 4

   Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.

5. 5

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder, then gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.

6. 6

   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

7. 7

   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. 8

   Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

9. 9

   --- Decoration ---

10. 10

    Once the cakes are completely cool, optionally add a crumb coat using buttercream frosting and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

11. 11

    Apply a smooth layer of buttercream frosting over the entire cake.

12. 12

    Decorate the cake with fondant, using food coloring to match school colors.

13. 13

    Add edible decorations like graduation caps or personalized messages.

14. 14

    Display the cake on a cake stand for an elevated presentation.