High School Graduation Book Cake: 1 Stunning Recipe

Celebrating a milestone like a graduation requires a centerpiece that tells a story. I really think a high school graduation book cake is the perfect way to honor all those long nights spent studying and all that hard work. This cake looks just like an open textbook or a classic novel and it symbolizes the end of a big chapter in a student’s life. I first made this for my niece and it was the star of the party because it looked so real but still tasted like a cozy homemade treat.

Why You Will Love This high school graduation book cake

You are going to love this recipe because it lets you be artistic without needing to be a professional baker. It has a super moist crumb and you can totally customize it with the graduate’s name or school colors. Even if you feel a little nervous about carving a cake I promise the process is pretty simple once you get going. It is such a personal gift that shows you really care about their big achievement.

Essential Ingredients for Your high school graduation book cake

Grab your apron and get these items ready for the cake base and the frosting that holds the whole look together.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• For the frosting 4 cups powdered sugar 1 cup butter and 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• For the pages white fondant or extra-smooth buttercream

Step-by-Step Instructions for the high school graduation book cake

I like to break this down into stages so you do not feel overwhelmed while you are working in the kitchen.

Baking the Rectangular Base

First get your oven preheated to 350 degrees. Grease up a large rectangular sheet pan so the cake pops out easily. Mix your dry ingredients in one bowl and then slowly add in the butter milk and eggs. Pour that batter in evenly and bake it for about 30 to 35 minutes. You have to let the cake cool completely before you even think about carving it or it might crumble into a mess.

Carving the Book Shape

This is where the magic happens. Find the exact center of your rectangular cake and use a serrated knife to cut a shallow V shape right down the middle. Then gently shave the top edges of the cake at a slight downward angle toward that center line. This makes it look like the pages are curving inward toward the spine of the book.

Expert Tips for a Perfect high school graduation book cake

I have learned a few things the hard way so you do not have to. Here are my top secrets for success.

• Use a firm recipe like a pound cake or a dense vanilla sponge so it stays sturdy while you are carving the shapes.
• If you want the pages to look a little old or vintage you can lightly brush the edges with a tiny bit of cocoa powder mixed with water.
• Always do a thin crumb coat of frosting and put the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes before you put on the final layer of decorating.

Storage and Make-Ahead Guide for high school graduation book cake

You can actually bake the cake part two days before the party. Just wrap it really tight in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature. Once you have it all frosted and decorated keep it in a cool and dry spot. If you decide to use a cream filling you should store it in the fridge but make sure to bring it out an hour before serving so the texture is just right.

Frequently Asked Questions About high school graduation book cake

I get asked these questions a lot when I tell people I am making a book cake.

How many people does this cake serve

A standard 9×13 inch sheet cake that you carve into a book usually feeds about 20 to 24 guests depending on how big you cut the slices.

Can I make this without fondant

Yes you definitely can. You can just use a piping bag with a flat tip to draw thin lines on the sides of the cake to make it look like individual pages.

Estimated Nutritional Information for high school graduation book cake

Here is a quick look at the nutrition for one serving of this special treat.

• Calories 450 kcal
• Total Fat 22g
• Saturated Fat 14g
• Cholesterol 85mg
• Sodium 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates 62g
• Sugars 45g
• Protein 4g

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