overhead shot of a decorated graduation cookie cake

Graduation cookie cake

graduation party cookie cake

By:

WordofMany

Published:

23 Oct 2025

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Graduation is a HUGE milestone, and what better way to celebrate all that hard work than with a massive, delicious cookie cake? Forget boring sheet cakes; this cookie cake is all about fun, flavor, and personalization. I still remember graduating and my parents threw me the most cringe-worthy graduation party. I'm talking awkward family photos and speeches that went on for what felt like an eternity. Don't let that be you!! This recipe is surprisingly simple, even if you’re not a baking wizard. It all starts with a classic chocolate chip cookie base, but we're scaling things up to party size. Plus, it’s a blank canvas for all your creative decorating ideas!
close up of the texture of a baked graduation cookie cake
What I love most about this recipe (besides the obvious deliciousness) is how customizable it is. Use your grad's favorite colors for the frosting, add candies that remind you of inside jokes, or even write a funny message on top. It’s all about making it personal and memorable. Are you thinking of using gluten free flour? That's a brilliant idea! Just use a 1:1 substitute and make sure that there are no lumps when you mix it in. You could even make mini cookie cakes, too, if you want individual desserts.
hands decorating a graduation cookie cake with frosting and sprinkles

Required Equipments

  • Large Baking Sheet (12x17 inches)
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Spatula
  • Parchment Paper (optional)
  • Piping Bags and Tips (for decorating)
  • Oven

Graduation Party Cookie Cake: Frequently Asked Questions

Graduation Party Cookie Cake

Celebrate academic achievements with a show-stopping Graduation Party Cookie Cake! This giant cookie is easy to customize, fun to decorate, and sure to be the hit of any graduation party.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 12 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking sheet (12x17 inches) really well. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal – trust me, it's worth it! If you don’t have a baking sheet that big, you can divide the dough and bake in two batches.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and both sugars (granulated and brown) until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don't rush this step; it's important for the cookie's texture. Make sure you are using unsalted butter!! I made that mistake one time and my cookies tasted like soap.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined. If you are feeling adventurous try using different extracts for a unique taste!
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  5. Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cookie. You should also add a little bit of cinnamon, I promise it doesn't make the cake taste like Christmas! It gives it a nice warm feeling.
  6. Add Chocolate Chips (and any other mix-ins): Stir in the chocolate chips (or any other mix-ins you desire). You could try nuts, dried fruit, or even chopped candy bars. Get creative!
  7. Spread the Dough: Spread the cookie dough evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. This can be a little tricky since the dough is thick. Use your hands or a spatula to press it into an even layer. Don't worry if it's not perfect; it will spread out as it bakes.
  8. Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Keep a close eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. The cookie should be slightly soft in the center but not doughy.
  9. Cool: Let the cookie cake cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting. This is important, or the frosting will melt. Place it in the freezer for 10 minutes to speed up the process.
  10. Make the Frosting: While the cookie is cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk. If it's too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. You could also buy store bought frosting if you want, ain't no shame in that!
  11. Frost and Decorate: Once the cookie cake is completely cool, frost it with the buttercream frosting. Now comes the fun part: decorating! Use sprinkles, candies, chocolate drizzles, or anything else you like to make it festive. I recommend writing “Congrats Grad!” or the graduate’s name on top. Use food coloring to create custom colors for your frosting or add edible glitter for extra sparkle. I think you should use your schools colors!
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Cut the cookie cake into slices and serve. Watch as everyone's eyes light up when they see this magnificent treat!

📝 Notes

  • For a thicker cookie cake, chill the dough for 30 minutes before spreading it on the baking sheet.
  • Feel free to substitute different types of chocolate chips or add other mix-ins like nuts or sprinkles.
  • Store leftover cookie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 4 g

Fat: 16 g

Carbohydrates: 50 g

Fiber: 2 g

Calcium: 50 mg

The best celebrations are those filled with laughter, good company, and, of course, delicious treats. Let's make memories, one cookie cake at a time!

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