How Can You Create the Perfect Mortar Board Cake?

AvatarByLori Morrissey Recipes and Baking Techniques

How To Make A Mortar Board Cake: A Sweet Celebration of Achievement

Graduation is a momentous occasion, a time to celebrate years of hard work and dedication. What better way to honor this significant milestone than with a delightful mortar board cake? This creative dessert not only captures the essence of graduation but also serves as a delicious centerpiece for any celebration. Whether you’re baking for a high school graduation, a college commencement, or any achievement worth celebrating, a mortar board cake adds a personal touch that will leave a lasting impression on graduates and guests alike.

Creating a mortar board cake is a fun and rewarding process that combines baking skills with a touch of artistry. The cake typically features a square top resembling the iconic graduation cap, complete with a tassel made from fondant or other edible materials. With a variety of flavors and fillings to choose from, you can customize this dessert to suit the tastes of the graduate. From chocolate to vanilla, or even a layered combination, the possibilities are endless.

In addition to the cake itself, decorating it can be a joyous experience, allowing you to express creativity through colors, designs, and personal touches. Whether you opt for a simple design or an elaborate display, the mortar board cake is sure to be a hit at any graduation party

Ingredients Needed

To create a stunning mortar board cake, gather the following ingredients:

  • Cake Layers:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Decoration:
  • Black fondant (for the mortarboard)
  • Edible gold or silver luster dust (for embellishment)
  • Candy or chocolate squares (for the tassel)
  • Edible glue or water (to adhere decorations)

Baking the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well before adding the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.

Carefully stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin. Pour equal amounts into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Preparing the Frosting

While the cake layers cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed. Once combined, add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more cream or powdered sugar as needed.

Assembling the Mortar Board Cake

Once the cake layers are cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. Place one layer on a serving platter and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top of the first and apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

After the crumb coat is firm, apply a thick layer of frosting over the entire cake. Smooth the frosting using a spatula or bench scraper for a clean finish.

Creating the Mortar Board Decoration

To create the mortarboard, roll out black fondant into a square shape, approximately 12×12 inches. Cut the edges to make a clean square. Place the fondant on top of the cake, allowing some overhang, and trim excess.

For the tassel, roll out a small piece of fondant, shape it into a thin rope, and attach it to a candy or chocolate square. Use edible glue or water to secure it to the top of the mortarboard.

Component Measurement
Flour 2 cups
Sugar 2 cups
Cocoa Powder 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Butter (Frosting) 1 cup

Finally, dust the mortar board with edible luster dust for a polished finish. Your mortar board cake is now ready to celebrate any graduation milestone!

Ingredients for Mortar Board Cake

To create a visually appealing mortar board cake, you will need the following ingredients:

  • For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • For the Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For Decoration:
  • Black fondant or black-colored frosting
  • Edible gold or silver luster dust (optional)
  • Gummy candies or chocolate squares for the tassel

Baking the Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them or lining them with parchment paper.
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
  1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  1. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.
  1. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting the Cake

  1. Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined. Add milk and vanilla extract, then beat on high speed until light and fluffy.
  1. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top of the first. Use the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake.
  1. Create the Mortar Board: Cut a square piece of cardboard or a cake board, approximately 12×12 inches, to serve as the base for the mortarboard. Place it on top of the frosted cake.

Decoration Techniques

  • Covering the Cake Board: Roll out the black fondant and cover the cardboard square, smoothing it down for an even finish.
  • Creating the Cap: Use additional black fondant to create a square cap. Roll out a piece of fondant and cut it into a square, then place it on top of the cake board.
  • Making the Tassel: For the tassel, take a small piece of fondant or use gummy candies. Attach it to one corner of the cap using a bit of frosting or edible glue.
  • Finishing Touches: Dust the cap and the tassel with edible luster dust for a shimmering effect, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Slice and Serve: Cut the mortar board cake into slices for serving. This cake pairs well with coffee or milk.
  • Presentation: Consider placing the cake on a decorative stand or plate to enhance its visual appeal. Adding small graduation-themed decorations around the base can create a festive atmosphere.
  • Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Expert Advice on Crafting the Perfect Mortar Board Cake

Jessica Hartman (Pastry Chef and Culinary Instructor, Sweet Creations Academy). “When making a mortar board cake, the key is to ensure that your cake layers are level and sturdy. Use a dense cake recipe, such as a pound cake, to provide the necessary structure for the board and cap. Additionally, a ganache or buttercream frosting can help achieve a smooth finish, which is crucial for the visual appeal of the cake.”

Michael Tran (Baking Author and Food Blogger, The Cake Chronicles). “To create an authentic mortar board effect, consider using fondant to cover the cake. This allows for a clean and polished look, mimicking the traditional graduation cap. Don’t forget to add details like a tassel made from edible materials, which can elevate the presentation significantly.”

Linda Garcia (Event Planner and Cake Designer, Celebrations by Linda). “Presentation is everything when it comes to a mortar board cake. I recommend using a cake board that resembles a diploma for an added touch. Additionally, incorporating elements like fresh flowers or personalized messages can make the cake not only a centerpiece but also a memorable keepsake for the graduate.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients are needed to make a mortar board cake?
To make a mortar board cake, you will need cake mix or ingredients for a homemade cake (flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder), frosting (buttercream or fondant), and decorations such as chocolate squares or edible gold dust.

How do I shape the mortar board cake?
To shape the mortar board cake, bake a square cake for the base and a smaller round cake for the top. Trim the round cake to create a flat surface, then place it on the square cake, ensuring it resembles a graduation cap.

What type of frosting is best for a mortar board cake?
Buttercream frosting is ideal for a mortar board cake due to its smooth texture and ease of application. Fondant can also be used for a more polished look, especially for covering the entire cake.

Can I use store-bought cake for a mortar board cake?
Yes, using store-bought cake is a convenient option. You can purchase a pre-made cake and decorate it to resemble a mortar board, saving time while still achieving a festive appearance.

How can I decorate a mortar board cake?
Decorate a mortar board cake with black frosting for the cap, use a chocolate square for the top, and add a tassel made from colored fondant or edible string. Personal touches like a graduation year can enhance the design.

How far in advance can I make a mortar board cake?
You can make a mortar board cake up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it, but ensure it is properly covered to maintain freshness.
In summary, creating a mortar board cake involves several essential steps that combine baking skills with creative decoration techniques. The process begins with selecting a suitable cake recipe, typically a dense cake that can hold its shape well. Once baked and cooled, the cake is shaped into a square for the mortar board and a smaller round cake for the cap. The use of fondant or buttercream icing is crucial for achieving a polished finish that resembles a traditional mortar board.

Additionally, attention to detail is vital when decorating the cake. Incorporating elements such as a tassel, made from edible materials, and using colors that represent a specific school or graduation theme can enhance the cake’s visual appeal. It is also important to consider the structural integrity of the cake, ensuring that the layers are properly stacked and supported to prevent collapsing.

Finally, presentation plays a significant role in the overall impact of the mortar board cake. Displaying the cake on a well-chosen cake stand and adding decorative elements like fresh flowers or themed accessories can elevate the celebratory atmosphere. By following these guidelines, anyone can create a stunning mortar board cake that is not only delicious but also a memorable centerpiece for graduation celebrations.

Author Profile

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Lori Morrissey
Baking has always been a passion for Lori Morrissey, and over the years, it has become more than just a hobby it’s a way to connect with people, share creativity, and bring joy to others. From her early days in her grandparents’ kitchen, where she first learned the magic of homemade cookies. Encouraged by her grandfather’s prediction that she would one day sell her own baked goods.

Now experimenting in the kitchen to running a successful baking business, Lori has always been drawn to the process of creating something delicious from scratch. Lori believes that baking should be fun, stress free, and filled with joy. Through her blog, she shares everything she has learned from perfecting cookie textures to making bakery quality cakes at home so that others can feel confident in the kitchen.

“Baking should be fun, rewarding, and a little messy. If you’re having fun, you’re doing it right!”– Lori Morrissey