Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake

Name: Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 5 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup milk; Food coloring (various colors); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Graduation-themed toppers or decorations

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

I love creating special desserts for memorable occasions, and this Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake is a showstopper! As we celebrated a friend’s graduation recently, I decided to craft a cake that not only looks impressive but also tastes divine. Each slice reveals colorful layers that symbolize achievement and progress, and the combination of flavors is sure to impress. Whether you're planning a graduation party or just want to indulge, this cake will be the centerpiece of any celebration!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-21T21:10:18.322Z

When I first made this cake, I was blown away by how visually stunning it turned out. Layering different colors not only showcases creativity but also adds an element of surprise to every slice. I recommend using a good quality food coloring to ensure the colors pop. This way, you can elevate the aesthetics without compromising on flavor.

Each layer of cake is infused with a hint of vanilla, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy frosting that holds everything together. Making a buttercream that’s both stable and fluffy is key; I love to whip it just enough to achieve that perfect balance. Take your time with the assembly, and you'll be rewarded with a cake that leaves everyone raving!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Vibrant colors that make an impressive centerpiece
Delicious layers of flavor and creamy frosting
A heartfelt tribute to accomplishments and celebrations

Understanding the Cake Layers

The construction of this Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake starts with the cake layers themselves, which need to be light and fluffy. Using room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, is essential for achieving a smooth batter that traps air, helping the cake rise beautifully. Make sure to mix the butter and sugar until it's pale and fluffy; this could take 4-5 minutes with a stand mixer. This step ensures a tender crumb.

Baking your cake layers at the correct temperature (350°F) is crucial. An oven thermometer can help guarantee accuracy. Overbaking will lead to dry, crumbly layers, while underbaking can leave them gooey in the center. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once done, let the layers sit in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Perfecting the Buttercream Frosting

For the buttercream frosting, it's important to beat the butter until it's creamy and has lightened in color. Gradually adding the powdered sugar helps to prevent a dusty cloud when mixing. If you're finding the frosting too stiff, don’t hesitate to add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream. This technique gives the frosting a glossy, smooth finish that’s easy to spread. The consistency should be thick yet spreadable, making it perfect for layering between cake layers and for the final coat.

If you love working with colors, consider using gel food coloring for a more vibrant palette. A little goes a long way, and you can adjust the shades to suit the celebration theme. When applying the final coat of frosting after the crumb coat, using an offset spatula can achieve a beautifully smooth exterior. I also recommend chilling the assembled cake for about 30 minutes before adding decorations for a sturdier finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your stunning Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake:

Cake Layers

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk
Food coloring (various colors)

Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Decoration

Graduation-themed toppers or decorations

With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to baking a cake that is both beautiful and delicious!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients while alternating with milk, mixing until smooth.

Color the Batter

Divide the batter evenly into bowls and add food coloring to each bowl to create the desired colors. Mix until well combined.

Bake the Layers

Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before removing from pans.

Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Mix until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, stack the cake layers with a layer of buttercream frosting between each. Apply a thin coat of frosting around the entire cake (crumb coat), chill for 15 minutes, then apply a final coat of frosting.

Decorate

Finish with graduation-themed decorations on top of the cake. Slice and serve to celebrate!

Enjoy your beautifully layered cake and the joy it brings to your celebration!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure your cake is fully cooled before frosting. Consider using a cake leveler to achieve even layers.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Layered Graduation Ribbon Cake can be made a day in advance, which can save you time on the day of the celebration. After baking and cooling the layers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. This helps them retain moisture. The buttercream can also be prepared a day ahead; just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Before using it, give it a quick mix to restore its fluffiness.

To freeze the cake layers, wrap them in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If time allows, you can frost and decorate the cake while still slightly chilled, as this helps keep it stable during the decorating process.

Decoration Ideas

Beyond traditional graduation decorations like caps and diplomas, consider adding personalized touches such as edible images, fondant accents, or even a banner depicting the graduate's school colors. Sprinkling edible glitter can add a festive flair, while fresh flowers that align with the graduation theme create an elegant look. Just ensure that any decorations you use are food-safe if placed on the cake itself.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating flavors into your cake layers or frosting. For example, a hint of almond extract can compliment the vanilla beautifully, or you could add citrus zest to the frosting for a refreshing twist. This not only complements the colors visually but also enhances the taste experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but be aware it may affect the cake structure.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

→ What if I don't have three cake pans?

You can bake the layers one at a time, just ensure to let each layer cool before removing it from the pan.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before assembly.