Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because it has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for celebrations: my Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe. This cake feels like a warm hug wrapped in layers of tender almond cake, luscious strawberry filling, and fluffy whipped cream, all topped with fresh strawberries that make every bite feel like a little moment of joy. Every time I make it, it turns any occasion into something truly special and memorable, and I just know you’ll love it as much as I do.

Why You'll Love This Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe

What makes this Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe stand out for me is the perfect balance of flavors and textures that come together so effortlessly. The almond base is rich and slightly nutty, giving the cake a wonderful depth while remaining light and tender. Then, the strawberry filling adds this refreshing, naturally sweet, and slightly tangy burst of flavor that brightens up every bite. It’s like the cake is wearing its fresh and fruity party outfit, and I just love how uplifting it tastes!

Another thing I appreciate about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, even though it looks impressive when served. With just a few essential ingredients and straightforward steps, I can whip it up without any stress or complicated techniques. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a baking superstar without spending hours in the kitchen. I love that I can make it ahead of time, and it keeps beautifully until the party starts.

The versatility of this cake makes it perfect for so many different occasions—from milestone birthdays and family get-togethers to holidays and, of course, any kind of graduation celebration. It really elevates the table, and I’ve found it sparks joy and conversation every time. If you're searching for a celebratory cake that's impressive but not intimidating, this recipe is definitely the one to try!

Ingredients You'll Need

The magic behind this Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe comes from a handful of simple but high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: almond paste gives the base its tender, slightly crunchy texture and nutty flavor; eggs and butter create richness and structure; strawberries provide vibrant sweetness and natural color; and the double cream whipped with icing sugar makes the finishing touch beautifully light and airy.

• Almond paste: Provides a rich, nutty base that keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Butter or margarine: Adds creaminess and helps bind the cake together beautifully.
• Eggs: Give structure and lightness to the almond base for a perfect crumb.
• Plain flour: Just enough to hold the base without weighing it down.
• Frozen strawberries: Ideal for a vibrant filling with balanced sweetness.
• Water: Helps dissolve the jelly sugar to create a nice glaze for the strawberries.
• Dansukker Jelly Sugar Multi: This special sugar helps set the strawberry filling so it stays perfectly glossy and firm.
• Double cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it adds a luscious and fluffy topping.
• Dansukker Icing Sugar: Sweetens the cream delicately without overpowering it.
• Fresh strawberries: The beautiful finishing touch for decoration and extra fruity freshness.

Directions

Step 1: Start by coarsely grating the almond paste into a large bowl. This helps it blend smoothly when you add the butter or margarine next. Whisk them together until the mixture is silky and smooth—no lumps here!

Step 2: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then gently fold in the plain flour to keep everything light and airy. The batter should feel rich but easy to spread.

Step 3: Line a wide oven pan with greased baking parchment and pour the batter in, smoothing it out evenly. Bake it in the oven at 175 °C (about 350 °F) for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean. Once baked, set it aside to cool completely.

Step 4: While the cake cools, prepare the strawberry filling by chopping the frozen strawberries into smaller pieces. Put them in a saucepan with the water and Dansukker Jelly Sugar Multi. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it bubble for 30 seconds so the sugar dissolves and the strawberries soften slightly.

Step 5: Remove the cooled cake carefully from the baking parchment and place it onto your serving dish. Spread the warm strawberry mixture evenly over the almond base, letting its vibrant color and glossy finish shine.

Step 6: In a chilled bowl, whip the double cream with the Dansukker Icing Sugar until it reaches soft peaks. This means the cream holds its shape gently but is still smooth and silky. Spread or pipe this beautiful whipped cream over the strawberry layer, covering it generously.

Step 7: Finally, decorate the top with plenty of fresh strawberries arranged artfully for eye-catching flair and extra deliciousness. I love creating patterns or just piling them on for a rustic, inviting look. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the most refreshing experience.

Servings and Timing

This Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe yields about 25 generous pieces, perfect for serving a crowd at a celebratory event. The prep time is roughly 20 minutes for mixing and preparing the layers, with 25 minutes for baking. Cooling the cake and preparing the filling and cream will take an additional 30 minutes, so plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total before you can slice in and enjoy. The cake benefits from some resting time to let the flavors meld and the filling set, so prepare a little ahead whenever you can.

How to Serve This Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe

When I serve this cake, I like to keep the presentation fresh and inviting. It’s wonderful on its own thanks to the layered flavors, but pairing it with a light, crisp beverage like sparkling elderflower lemonade or a chilled rosé wine really elevates the experience. For a non-alcoholic option, a berry-infused iced tea complements the strawberries beautifully and keeps things refreshing.

Garnishing ideas are endless! Aside from the fresh strawberries on top, I sometimes sprinkle a few toasted almond slivers along the edges or scatter edible flowers for an extra touch of celebration. Serving slices on simple white plates lets the vibrant colors take center stage, and I usually recommend moderate portions so everyone can savor the cake without feeling too full.

This cake shines best when served slightly chilled or at room temperature, as the creamy and fruity filling is at its peak flavor and texture. It’s perfect for graduations, birthday parties, or even a casual weekend gathering where you want to impress friends with something homemade but effortless. I’ve even brought it to afternoon teas and found it pairs wonderfully with delicate finger sandwiches and sparkling water with lemon.

Variations

I love playing around with this Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For example, swapping the almond paste for hazelnut paste can give the base a slightly different, yet equally delicious, nutty flavor. If you need gluten-free options, just use gluten-free plain flour, and the cake turns out just as tender and lovely.

If you’re looking to make this vegan, you can try replacing the butter with coconut oil and opting for a vegan egg substitute like flax eggs or commercial vegan replacers. For the cream, coconut cream whipped with a touch of powdered sugar makes a fantastic alternative topping, giving the cake its same luscious finish.

For a twist on the filling, I sometimes mix in raspberries with the strawberries or add a splash of balsamic vinegar to deepen the berry flavor. You can also experiment with different cooking methods, like baking the base in a springform pan for a taller cake or making cupcakes with the same components for individual servings. The recipe is a great foundation for creativity!

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe fresh, I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. A cake dome or a large plastic container works well to protect it from other fridge odors. It will stay delicious and moist for up to 3 days, though I find it’s best enjoyed within 24 to 48 hours for optimal freshness.

Freezing

This cake can be tricky to freeze once fully assembled due to the whipped cream topping and fresh strawberries, which don’t freeze well. However, you can freeze the almond base on its own in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw the base overnight in the fridge before adding the fresh strawberry filling and whipped cream for the best texture.

Reheating

I don’t recommend reheating this cake because the delicate whipped cream and strawberry filling lose their ideal texture when warmed. If your base is frozen and thawed, bring it to room temperature before assembling to preserve the best flavor and crumb structure. When serving, just slice and enjoy chilled or at room temperature for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for the filling?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries work beautifully too. Just chop them and gently simmer with the water and jelly sugar as directed. The key is to use ripe, flavorful berries to get that perfect fruity filling.

Do I have to use Dansukker Jelly Sugar Multi, or can I substitute it?

Dansukker Jelly Sugar Multi is great because it helps the filling set nicely with a glossy finish. If you don’t have it, you can try using regular gelatine or a clear fruit pectin as an alternative, but follow package instructions for amounts and cooking times.

Is there a way to make the cake more moist or rich?

If you want a moister cake, you can brush the almond base with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) before spreading the strawberry filling. Adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cake batter can also amplify the almond flavor deliciously.

Can I prepare this cake a day in advance?

Yes! I often make the base and filling a day ahead and whip the cream fresh on the day of serving. This keeps the whipped cream light and fluffy and the strawberries fresh and vibrant.

What size pan should I use for baking the base?

A wide oven pan, roughly around 30x40 cm (12x16 inches), works wonderfully for this recipe to achieve that nice, flat almond base layer. Line it well with greased parchment so you can easily lift out the cake once it’s cooled.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Graduation Cake with Strawberry Filling and Almond Base Recipe a try because it brings so much joy and celebration to any table. It’s one of those cakes I make when I want to impress effortlessly, and it never disappoints. The combination of almond, strawberry, and cream is timeless, and sharing it with friends or family always feels special. Happy baking, and here’s to making memories as sweet as this cake!

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