Graduation season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with some delicious desserts? We’ve rounded up 15 easy sweet treats that will surely impress your guests without adding stress to your planning. From simple no-bake options to easy-to-make baked goodies, each dessert brings a fun twist to your graduation festivities!

Chocolate Mousse in Mini Cups

Chocolate mousse in mini cups is a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate flavor with a light, airy texture. These little cups are not only delicious but also make for an elegant presentation at any graduation party. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

The mousse is creamy and indulgent, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa for a touch of flair. Served in bite-sized portions, these mini cups allow guests to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging. They’re perfect for celebrating achievements with a sweet note!

Graduation Flag Donuts

Graduation Flag Donuts are a fun and festive treat perfect for celebrating academic achievements. These donuts are not only delicious, with a light and fluffy texture, but they also serve as a creative way to showcase school spirit. Topped with colorful icing and sprinkles, they’re visually appealing and mouth-wateringly sweet, making them a hit at any graduation party.

Making these donuts is simple and requires minimal ingredients. You can either use store-bought donuts for a quicker option or try your hand at baking them from scratch. Either way, you’ll be ready to cheer on the graduate in style!

Ingredients

• 12 glazed donuts
• 1 cup pink frosting
• 1/2 cup blue and red sprinkles
• 12 small flag picks

Instructions

1. Frost each donut with a generous layer of pink frosting.
2. Sprinkle blue and red sprinkles over the frosted surface.
3. Insert a flag pick into the center of each donut.
4. Arrange the donuts on a platter and serve immediately for a delightful graduation dessert!

Fruit Tassel Skewers

Fruit tassel skewers are a fun and vibrant dessert that adds a refreshing twist to any graduation party. These colorful fruit arrangements are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. They combine sweet strawberries, juicy grapes, and tart blueberries, making for a delightful treat that’s perfect for warm weather.

Easy to assemble and customize, these skewers are a hit among guests of all ages. You can mix and match your favorite fruits to create a unique combination. Plus, they make for a great healthy option alongside the more indulgent desserts!

Ingredients

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled
• 1 cup green grapes
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 pineapple, cut into chunks
• Wooden skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit by washing and cutting it into appropriate sizes. Make sure to hull the strawberries and cut the pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
2. Take a wooden skewer and begin assembling the fruit in your desired order. You can alternate between strawberries, grapes, blueberries, and pineapple for a colorful effect.
3. Once all the fruit is on the skewer, repeat the process with additional skewers until you’ve used up your fruit.
4. Arrange the finished skewers on a platter and serve chilled for a refreshing treat.

Cheesecake Bites with Fondant Caps

Cheesecake bites are perfect for a graduation party, combining creamy cheesecake with a crunchy crust. They’re not only delicious but also fun to decorate, especially with fondant caps that celebrate the graduate’s achievement. These little treats are sure to impress your guests and make the celebration feel even more special.

Making these cheesecake bites is simple and straightforward. You can prepare the crust and filling ahead of time, allowing for a stress-free party day. The sweet and tangy cheesecake pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate or vanilla fondant caps, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz black fondant
• 1 oz yellow fondant

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of each liner to form the crust.
3. Bake the crusts for about 5-7 minutes, then remove and let cool.
4. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
6. Spoon the cheesecake filling into the cooled crusts and smooth the tops. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until set.
7. Once set, roll out the black fondant and cut it into small squares to make the caps. Create tassels using the yellow fondant.
8. Place the fondant caps on top of each cheesecake bite and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Graduation Themed Cake Pops

Graduation themed cake pops are a delightful way to celebrate this milestone with sweet treats that pack a punch of flavor. These bite-sized delights are not only fun to eat but also easy to make, making them perfect for any graduation party. Each pop is covered in colorful chocolate and topped with a festive cap, creating an eye-catching dessert that everyone will love.

With a mix of cake and frosting, these cake pops are moist and full of flavor. You can get creative with different colors and toppings, from sprinkles to edible glitter. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on celebrating! Here’s how you can make your own graduation cake pops:

Ingredients

• 1 box of cake mix (your favorite flavor)
• 1 cup of frosting (store-bought or homemade)
• 12 ounces of chocolate coating (dark, milk, or white chocolate)
• Sprinkles or edible decorations
• Lollipop sticks
• Black cardstock for caps
• Yellow string or twine for tassels

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake: Prepare the cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, let it cool completely.
2. Crumb the Cake: Once cooled, crumble the cake into a large bowl. Add the frosting a little at a time, mixing until you reach a dough-like consistency.
3. Form the Pops: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in size. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the cake balls for about 30 minutes to firm them up.
5. Melt the Chocolate: While the cake balls chill, melt your chocolate coating according to package instructions.
6. Dip the Sticks: Dip the end of each lollipop stick into the melted chocolate, then insert it into the center of each cake ball. This helps secure the stick.
7. Coat the Pops: Dip each cake ball in the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Immediately add sprinkles or edible decorations while the chocolate is still wet.
8. Create the Caps: Cut small squares from the cardstock to create caps. Use a piece of string or twine to make a tassel and attach it to the cap.
9. Assemble: Once the chocolate has set, place the cap on top of each cake pop.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the cake pops on a display to share with guests!

Diploma Sugar Cookies

Diploma sugar cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any graduation celebration. These sweet, buttery cookies are easy to make and can be decorated in fun, festive ways to represent the graduation theme. With a smooth icing and colorful sprinkles, they not only taste great but also look charming on any dessert table.

These cookies are a hit with both kids and adults, bringing a smile to everyone’s face. Their light, crisp texture paired with the sweetness of the icing makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re simple enough that even beginner bakers can whip them up without any fuss!

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups royal icing
• Food coloring (for icing)
• Sprinkles (for decoration)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
5. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to shape cookies into diploma rolls or other festive designs.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, decorate with royal icing and sprinkles as desired. Let the icing set before serving.

Cap and Gown Cupcakes

Cap and Gown Cupcakes are the perfect festive treat for any graduation celebration. These delightful cupcakes feature rich chocolate cake topped with vibrant buttercream frosting in celebratory colors, adding a fun twist to your dessert table. They are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious treat that balances sweetness with a hint of chocolate.

Making these cupcakes is quite straightforward, making them an excellent choice for bakers of all levels. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Add some cute graduation cap toppers for that final touch, and you’ll have a treat that graduates and guests alike will love!

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 4 cups butter, softened
• 8 cups powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoons heavy cream
• Food coloring in your choice of colors

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and mix until well combined.
3. Slowly stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely.
5. For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Add heavy cream to achieve desired consistency. Divide the frosting into bowls and tint with food coloring as desired.
6. Frost the cooled cupcakes with your colored buttercream. Top each cupcake with a cute graduation cap topper for decoration. Enjoy!

Mortarboard Brownies

Mortarboard brownies are the perfect treat to celebrate graduation! These chocolatey delights are topped with colorful sprinkles and cute little mortarboard decorations, making them a fun addition to any graduation party. They are rich, fudgy, and sure to please any chocolate lover.

Not only are these brownies delicious, but they are also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip these up in no time, allowing you to focus on the celebration ahead!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• Candy melts or chocolate for mortarboards
• Colored sprinkles
• Twine or string for tassels

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in chocolate chips.
4. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares. To create mortarboards, melt some candy melts or chocolate and pour it onto squares, letting it harden slightly. Add sprinkles for decoration and use twine to create tassels.

Lemon Tartlets with Candied Zest

Lemon tartlets are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweetness and tanginess. These bite-sized desserts are refreshing and full of zesty flavor, making them an ideal choice for any graduation party. Plus, they’re quite simple to whip up, even for those who may not have much baking experience.

The buttery crust is filled with a smooth, lemony custard that melts in your mouth, while the candied zest adds a lovely touch of brightness and texture. These tartlets not only taste delicious but also look stunning on any dessert table, surely impressing your guests.

Pavlova with Berries

Pavlova is a light and airy dessert that’s perfect for celebrations, especially graduation parties. With its crisp exterior and soft, marshmallow-like center, it offers a delightful contrast in textures. Topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, it’s a vibrant dish that’s not just stunning but also bursting with flavor.

This dessert is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Once you master the meringue base, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste or the season. Whether you choose strawberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries, the result will be a showstopper at your gathering.

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form.
3. Add the vanilla extract and vinegar, and mix just until combined.
4. Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a round disk with a slight dip in the center.
5. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let the meringue cool completely inside.
6. Whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spoon the whipped cream over the cooled meringue.
7. Top with fresh berries and garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

S’mores Graduation Treats

S’mores Graduation Treats are a delightful twist on the classic campfire favorite, perfect for celebrating your graduate’s big day. These treats combine crispy graham crackers, sweet chocolate, and fluffy marshmallows, all while adding a fun graduation theme that will impress guests.

Not only are these treats simple to make, but they also offer a nostalgic taste that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a sweet way to celebrate, these treats are sure to please!

Ingredients

• 1 package of graham crackers
• 1 cup chocolate chips or chocolate bars
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup milk chocolate melts or fondant (for decoration)
• 1-2 tablespoons of chocolate icing (for decoration)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Start by laying out graham crackers on a baking sheet. Place a piece of chocolate on each cracker.
2. Add Marshmallows: Top the chocolate with mini marshmallows. You can toast them slightly under a broiler if you like them extra gooey!
3. Top with Another Cracker: Place another graham cracker on top of the marshmallows, creating a sandwich.
4. Decorate: Melt the chocolate melts or fondant and carefully drizzle or mold them into a graduation cap shape on top of the cracker sandwich.
5. Finish with Icing: Use chocolate icing to add a tassel to your graduation cap. Let cool and set before serving.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Rods

Chocolate-covered pretzel rods are a delightful mix of salty and sweet, making them a perfect treat for any graduation party. These crunchy snacks are not only easy to make, but they’re also customizable with your favorite toppings, ensuring that they’ll appeal to everyone.

The process is straightforward, and it’s a fun activity to do with friends or family. Just dip the pretzel rods in melted chocolate, add some colorful sprinkles, and let them set. These treats are sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 bag of pretzel rods
• 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
• 1/2 cup assorted sprinkles or toppings (like crushed nuts or coconut)

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
2. Dip the Pretzels: Hold each pretzel rod by one end and dip it into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
3. Add Toppings: While the chocolate is still wet, roll or sprinkle your desired toppings over the pretzel rods. Get creative with the combinations!
4. Let Them Set: Place the decorated pretzel rods on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or speed up the process by placing them in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has hardened, serve these tasty treats at your graduation party!

Rainbow Layer Cake

Celebrate your graduation with a stunning Rainbow Layer Cake that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at! This cake features vibrant layers of color, a soft texture, and a sweet frosting that brings everything together. Perfect for any party, it’s simple enough for even novice bakers to tackle, making it a fun project to get everyone involved.

The taste is a delightful mix of vanilla and buttercream that will leave everyone wanting more. With each slice, you’ll reveal a beautiful array of colors that adds to the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re throwing a big bash or a cozy gathering, this cake is sure to be a showstopper.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
• 4 cups buttercream frosting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour six 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly into six bowls. Add different food coloring to each bowl to create vibrant layers.
6. Pour each colored batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, frost each layer with buttercream frosting, stacking them carefully. Frost the outside of the cake for a smooth finish.
9. Decorate as desired with sprinkles or edible stars, and enjoy your Rainbow Layer Cake!

Mini Pavlova Nest with Whipped Cream

Mini Pavlovas are a delightful dessert that brings a perfect combination of lightness and sweetness to your graduation party. The crispy shell, made from whipped egg whites and sugar, contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy whipped cream and colorful fruits. They’re not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them an ideal choice for celebrating such a special occasion.

These little nests are surprisingly simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen. The blend of textures and flavors, from the crunchy exterior to the creamy filling topped with fresh fruits, makes each bite a joyful experience for your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruits (strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to whip until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
3. Gently fold in the vinegar and cornstarch. Spoon or pipe the meringue into small nests on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let the pavlovas cool completely inside. This helps them dry out and keeps them crispy.
5. When ready to serve, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Fill each pavlova nest with whipped cream and top with an assortment of fresh fruits.

Vanilla Ice Cream with Graduation Sprinkles

Vanilla ice cream is a classic treat that everyone loves, and when you add festive graduation sprinkles, it becomes the perfect dessert for celebrating achievements. This dessert is not only delicious but also super easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any graduation party.

The creamy, smooth texture of the vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the colorful sprinkles, adding a playful touch to the celebration. It’s a treat that brings smiles to faces and sweetness to the special day!

Ingredients

• 4 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup graduation-themed sprinkles
• Chocolate or caramel sauce (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into serving bowls or cones.
2. Generously sprinkle the graduation-themed sprinkles on top of the ice cream.
3. If desired, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce and add a dollop of whipped cream.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the celebration!