M&M's Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a fun and flavorful dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the colorful crunch of M&M's. This cake is moist, sweet, and layered with a smooth peanut butter frosting. It's perfect for any celebration or as a delightful treat for peanut butter lovers!
M&M's Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a delectable dessert that’s both rich in flavor and fun to eat. This cake is perfect for peanut butter enthusiasts, as it features a moist peanut butter cake base studded with colorful M&M’s, and it’s topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting. The addition of M&M’s adds a delightful crunch and vibrant look, making it ideal for any celebration.
INGREDIENTS
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups, for the cake base
- Baking Powder: 1 tsp, for leavening
- Baking Soda: 1/2 tsp, for extra rise
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, to balance the sweetness
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, room temperature, for a creamy base
- Creamy Peanut Butter: 1/2 cup, for a rich flavor
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness
- Large Eggs: 2, for structure
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp, for added flavor
- Buttermilk: 1/2 cup, for a moist texture
- M&M’s: 1 cup, mixed into the batter for color and crunch
- Unsalted Butter (for frosting): 1/2 cup, room temperature, for a creamy frosting
- Creamy Peanut Butter (for frosting): 1 cup, for a rich, smooth frosting
- Powdered Sugar: 2 cups, for sweetness in the frosting
- Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup, for a fluffy texture
- Vanilla Extract (for frosting): 1 tsp, to enhance flavor
- Additional M&M’s: for decorating the top of the cake
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Step 4:
- Add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Step 5:
- Gently fold in the M&M’s. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 8:
- For the frosting, beat the butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
- Step 9:
- Spread frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Step 10:
- Sprinkle additional M&M’s on top for decoration.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- For best flavor, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
- If desired, add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the frosting for extra decadence.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Anna suggests using crunchy peanut butter for extra texture in the frosting.
- Chef Mark recommends chilling the cake layers before frosting for easier assembly.
How to Make the Best Peanut Butter Cake
To make the best peanut butter cake, use creamy peanut butter and high-quality M&M’s for a rich flavor and colorful presentation. Make sure to alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to keep the batter smooth and airy.
Variations of Peanut Butter Cake
Try adding chopped nuts, like peanuts or walnuts, to the batter for an extra crunch. For a chocolate twist, use chocolate M&M’s or add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers.
FAQs
Can I use different M&M’s flavors?
Yes, you can use peanut, pretzel, or caramel M&M’s for a different flavor and texture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
Is this cake suitable for peanut allergies?
No, this cake contains peanut butter and M&M’s, making it unsuitable for those with peanut allergies.
Summary
M&M's Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a rich, colorful, and satisfying dessert that brings together the best of both worlds: the smooth, creamy taste of peanut butter and the sweet crunch of M&M’s. The cake itself is made with a fluffy peanut butter batter, which is filled with colorful M&M’s for a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite. Once baked, the cake is layered and topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting that complements the rich flavor of the cake. This cake is ideal for birthdays, family gatherings, or simply as a special treat for peanut butter lovers.