Graduation Dessert Cake Recipes

Graduation is a HUGE deal, and every big celebration needs an incredible dessert.

Making a cake yourself just feels a little more special, right? It’s the perfect way to celebrate your favorite grad.

The only hard part is deciding what kind to make. Chocolate? Vanilla? Something TOTALLY different?

To help you out, I put together a list of the absolute BEST graduation dessert cake recipes.

This list has it all. You’ll find super easy cakes that still look amazing, and some fancier options if you’re feeling ambitious.

There are classic crowd-pleasers, fun and fruity flavors, and a little bit of everything in between.

No matter what kind of party you’re planning, you’re sure to find the perfect sweet treat right here.

1. Classic Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Classic Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Classic Vanilla Cake with Buttercream Frosting is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration.

It’s light, fluffy, and coated in rich buttercream that makes every slice feel like a treat.

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2. Easy Strawberry Cake

Easy Strawberry Cake

Easy Strawberry Cake is a festive summer dessert made with a shortcut cake mix and packed with fresh strawberries.

It’s sweet, tangy, and comes together quickly for a no-fuss party or picnic favorite.

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3. Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is a fun, patriotic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for 4th of July or other holiday gatherings.

It starts with a simple cake mix and gets a colorful boost with red and blue desserts and a festive touch of cream.

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4. Chantilly Cake

Chantilly Cake

Chantilly Cake features a light vanilla cake with smooth chantilly cream and juicy fresh berries in every bite.

It’s elegant, easy to make, and always turns heads at dessert tables.

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5. Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a quick and delicious twist on the classic dessert.

With fluffy cake and a sweet strawberry filling, it’s a summer favorite you can make in minutes.

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6. Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a simple yet satisfying dessert with a white cake base and fresh berries.

Top it with whipped topping and strawberry pie filling for a bright, fruity treat that’s perfect for warm days.

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7. Punch Bowl Cake

Punch Bowl Cake

Punch Bowl Cake is a no-bake party favorite loaded with layers of cake, fruit, pudding, and pecans.

It’s colorful, creamy, and perfect for BBQs, family events, or just making your table look great.

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8. Million Dollar Cake

Million Dollar Cake

Million Dollar Cake brings tropical flavors to a familiar treat with layers of coconut, pineapple, and sweet cream.

It’s light, refreshing, and a fun twist on a classic cake mix dessert.

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9. Banana Pudding Cake

Banana Pudding Cake

Banana Pudding Cake is a 3 layer cake that brings the classic banana pudding flavor into a sweet, creamy dessert.

Each layer is moist and rich, with a hint of vanilla and chocolate for a sweet twist.

Perfect for celebrations or cozy family desserts.

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10. Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a homemade coffee cake recipe that’s soft, moist, and just sweet enough.

It features a crumbly streusel ribbon and a light topping for a delicious brunch treat.

Great with coffee or tea, it’s a favorite for weekend mornings.

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11. 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

3 Ingredient Apple Cake

3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a simple and cozy fall dessert made with just cake mix, apple pie filling, and eggs.

It’s quick to make, incredibly easy, and filled with warm cinnamon apple goodness.

The soft, cakey texture is perfect for sharing.

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12. Lemon Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Dump Cake is a quick dessert with bright citrus flavor from lemon pie filling and cake mix.

All you do is layer the ingredients and bake—no mixing or fuss.

It’s juicy, tangy, and perfect for a sweet treat with a zesty kick.

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13. Oreo Pudding Poke Cake

Oreo Pudding Poke Cake

Oreo Pudding Poke Cake starts with a chocolate cake base and is filled with creamy pudding.

The layers are topped with Cool Whip and crushed Oreos for a crunchy, sweet finish.

It’s a rich and satisfying dessert with cookies and cream flavor in every bite.

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14. Slow Cooker Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Slow Cooker Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Slow Cooker Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that combines chocolate and cherries.

It’s warm, cakey, and ready with minimal effort in your slow cooker.

Great for when you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven.

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15. Dr Pepper Cake

Dr Pepper Cake

Dr Pepper Cake is a chocolate cake with a hint of soda flavor, made easy with a cake mix base.

The rich frosting is infused with Dr Pepper for a unique twist.

Perfect for fans of soda and chocolate alike.

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16. Hot Chocolate Poke Cake

Hot Chocolate Poke Cake

Hot Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich chocolate cake topped with fudge sauce and marshmallow fluff.

It’s finished with chocolate Cool Whip and a touch of cozy warmth.

Ideal for anyone who loves chocolate and marshmallows.

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17. Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe

Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe

Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that layers sweet strawberry pie filling with a rich chocolate cake mix and melted butter. The result is a warm, juicy filling and a fudgy, slightly crisp chocolate crust that’s perfect with a scoop of ice cream.

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18. Coconut Raspberry Poke Cake

Coconut Raspberry Poke Cake

Coconut Raspberry Poke Cake brings tropical coconut and tart raspberry flavors together in a moist, creamy dessert. It’s easy to make and always a hit at birthdays or casual gatherings.

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19. Heath Bar Poke Cake

Heath Bar Poke Cake

Heath Bar Poke Cake combines chocolate cake, creamy filling, and crunchy Heath toffee bits for a rich, satisfying treat. It’s simple to pull together and delivers big flavor in every bite.

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20. Rainbow Jello Poke Cake

Rainbow Jello Poke Cake

Rainbow Jello Poke Cake is a vibrant, fun dessert made with a white cake mix and colorful Jello. Topped with Cool Whip and sprinkles, it’s a sweet, festive treat for birthdays and parties.

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21. Pumpkin Spice Cake Cups

Pumpkin Spice Cake Cups

Pumpkin Spice Cake Cups deliver cozy fall flavors in a bite-sized form, filled with sweet pumpkin spice cheesecake. They’re perfect for seasonal desserts or a quick sweet snack.

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22. Carrot Cake Cups

Carrot Cake Cups

Carrot Cake Cups are a mini version of the classic dessert, packed with cream cheese frosting and moist cake. They’re ideal for sharing or enjoying one at a time.

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23. Caramel Apple Cake Cups

Caramel Apple Cake Cups

Caramel Apple Cake Cups bring together butter pecan cake and spiced apple filling for a warm, handheld fall favorite. Each cup is sweet, rich, and perfect for snacking.

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24. Chocolate Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe

Chocolate Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe

Chocolate Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake mixes rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter for a gooey, indulgent dessert. It’s a show-stopping treat that’s great for any celebration or simple cravings.

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25. Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke Cake

Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke Cake

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke Cake is a rich, creamy dessert that blends chocolate cake with peanut butter goodness.

Every bite is packed with the sweet, salty flavor of Reese’s pieces and that classic poke cake texture.

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26. Hawaiian Dream Cake Recipe

Hawaiian Dream Cake Recipe

Hawaiian Dream Cake delivers tropical flavors with juicy pineapple, toasted coconut, and a light, buttery frosting.

It’s a sunny, sweet treat that feels like a vacation in every bite.

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27. Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe

Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe

Blueberry Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that’s bursting with fresh blueberries and a soft, buttery crust.

It’s sweet, easy to make, and perfect for casual gatherings or cozy nights in.

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28. Lemon Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Dump Cake with cream cheese combines tangy lemon curd and rich cream cheese for a cozy, flavorful dessert.

The warm, fluffy layers make it a favorite for lemon lovers and dump cake fans alike.

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29. Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Caramel Apple Dump Cake brings fall charm to your table with spiced apples, rich caramel, and a buttery cake base.

It’s warm, comforting, and ready in minutes—ideal for autumn desserts.

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30. (Strawberry) Rhubarb Dump Cake

(Strawberry) Rhubarb Dump Cake

(Strawberry) Rhubarb Dump Cake is a simple, juicy dessert that pairs tart rhubarb with sweet strawberries.

Made with just a few pantry staples, it’s a go-to for easy, homemade comfort.

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31. Crockpot Reese’s Cake

Crockpot Reese's Cake

Crockpot Reese’s Cake is a creamy, chocolatey treat made with peanut butter and Reese’s pieces.

It’s rich, gooey, and perfect for sharing when you want a no-fuss dessert.

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32. Slow Cooker Caramel Cake

Slow Cooker Caramel Cake

Slow Cooker Caramel Cake turns a basic yellow cake mix into something extra special with warm caramel swirls.

Serve it fresh from the crockpot with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate dessert.

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33. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake Recipe

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake Recipe

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake Recipe delivers a soft, spiced treat that’s easy to make with minimal effort.

The creamy pumpkin flavor gets a cozy boost from cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for chilly fall days.

It’s a sweet, no-fuss dessert that tastes like the holidays in every bite.

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