If you’re a fan of peanut butter and candy, you’re in for a treat with this M&Ms Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. This cake combines the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter with the colorful, crunchy sweetness of M&Ms, all topped with a luscious layer of peanut butter frosting. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because, this dessert will delight both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup M&Ms (peanut variety)
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
Optional:
- Additional M&Ms for decoration
Instructions
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in M&Ms: Gently fold in the M&Ms.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- Beat Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. It should be spreadable but not too runny.
Assembling the Cake:
- Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate: For extra flair, you can decorate the cake with additional M&Ms on top or around the sides.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Cooling Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This M&Ms Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a peanut butter lover’s dream come true. The combination of soft, moist cake with the rich, creamy frosting and the crunch of peanut M&Ms creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a showstopper at any gathering and a comforting treat for everyday indulgence.
Serving and Storage Tips for M&Ms Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting
Serving Tips
- Temperature: For the best flavor and texture, serve the cake at room temperature. If it has been refrigerated, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Cutting the Cake: Use a serrated knife for clean slices. If the frosting is very soft, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts to make slicing easier.
- Garnishing: Enhance the presentation by garnishing with additional M&Ms on top or around the edges. You can also drizzle a bit of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The frosting can remain soft and creamy for this period.
- Refrigeration: If you need to store the cake for longer, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the frosting from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- Frosting Freshness: If you plan to freeze the cake, it’s best to do so before frosting. Frost the cake after thawing to ensure the frosting remains fresh and creamy.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your M&Ms Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting at its best and ensure it stays delicious for as long as possible!
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cake. It will add extra crunch and flavor, though the cake’s texture might be slightly different compared to using creamy peanut butter.
2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake up to 2 days in advance. Store it at room temperature in an airtight container until you’re ready to frost and serve. If you need to prepare it even earlier, consider freezing the unfrosted cake layers and frosting separately. Thaw them before frosting and assembling.
3. How can I make the frosting thicker or thinner?
To make the frosting thicker, add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If you need to thin it out, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it becomes spreadable. Be sure to mix thoroughly after each addition.
4. Can I use other types of M&Ms or add mix-ins to the cake batter?
Yes, you can use other types of M&Ms, such as milk chocolate or pretzel M&Ms, for a different flavor and texture. You can also mix in other ingredients like chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a swirl of caramel for added variety. Just make sure any mix-ins are folded in gently to avoid overworking the batter.