Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Mix with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and well combined.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until fully combined.

Add 2 tablespoons of milk and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency.

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.

Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.

Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.

If desired, add food coloring to the frosting and pipe decorative designs on the cake.

Decorate with sprinkles or graduation-themed decorations to make it extra special.

Slice, serve, and enjoy your easy graduation cake!