Vanilla Cake with Edible Diploma Scrolls

Celebrate academic achievements with a delightful Vanilla Cake adorned with edible diploma scrolls. This moist and fluffy vanilla cake, topped with creamy buttercream frosting and decorated with handcrafted edible scrolls, serves as a perfect centerpiece for graduation festivities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vanilla Cake with Edible Diploma Scrolls combines classic flavors with creative decoration. The rich vanilla cake pairs beautifully with smooth buttercream frosting, while the edible diploma scrolls add a personalized and festive touch, making it ideal for graduation celebrations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Vanilla Cake:

• Cake flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Egg whites
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Milk or half-and-half
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Edible Diploma Scrolls:

• Rice Krispie treats
• White fondant
• Buttercream frosting
• Red ribbon or edible red fondant strips

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, grease them, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs and egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
3. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
   • Add the milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Level the cooled cake layers if necessary.
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of buttercream frosting on top.
   • Repeat with the remaining layers.
   • Apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.
   • Apply a final layer of buttercream frosting, smoothing it with a spatula.
6. Create the Edible Diploma Scrolls:
   • Shape Rice Krispie treats into small cylinders to resemble rolled-up diplomas.
   • Spread a thin layer of buttercream frosting over each cylinder.
   • Roll out the white fondant and wrap it around each cylinder, trimming any excess.
   • Tie a red ribbon or an edible red fondant strip around the center of each scroll.
7. Decorate the Cake:
   • Place the edible diploma scrolls on top of the frosted cake.
   • Add any additional decorations, such as edible graduation caps or personalized messages, as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 16 slices
• Preparation Time: 40 minutes
• Baking Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling and Decorating Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Vanilla Cake: Substitute half of the cake flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
• Fruit-Filled Cake: Add a layer of fresh strawberries or raspberries between the cake layers for a fruity surprise.
• Lemon Vanilla Cake: Incorporate lemon zest into the batter and frosting for a citrusy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

What type of flour is best for this cake?

Cake flour is preferred for its fine texture, which results in a tender and light crumb.

Can I use store-bought fondant for the diploma scrolls?

Yes, store-bought fondant works well for creating the edible diploma scrolls.

How do I prevent the cake layers from doming?

Ensure even oven temperature and avoid overmixing the batter. You can also use cake strips around the pans to promote even baking.

Can I make the cake layers in advance?

Yes, bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

How do I achieve a smooth buttercream finish?

Apply a crumb coat and chill the cake before applying the final layer of buttercream. Use a bench scraper for a smooth finish.

Can I color the fondant for the diploma scrolls?

Absolutely. Use gel food coloring to tint the fondant to your desired shade.

Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I use a different frosting?

Certainly. Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream can be used as alternatives to buttercream.

How do I transport the decorated cake?

Use a sturdy cake carrier and ensure the cake is well-chilled before transport to maintain stability.

Can I add a filling between the cake layers?

Yes, fillings such as fruit preserves, pastry cream, or flavored buttercream can be added between the layers for extra flavor.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Cake with Edible Diploma Scrolls is a delightful and festive dessert that combines classic flavors with creative decoration. Its moist texture and rich buttercream frosting make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for celebrating the achievements of graduates. Whether you’re hosting a large party or an intimate gathering, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy all your guests.

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