M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

If you are a peanut butter lover with a sweet tooth, you are going to fall head over heels for this M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe. This cake effortlessly combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the playful crunch and color of M&M’s, creating a dessert that looks as joyful as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth, nostalgia, and a party to every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this cake lies in its simple, accessible ingredients that each play a crucial role. From pantry staples to the star peanut butter and colorful M&M’s, every item contributes to a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and vibrant appeal.

• All-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and tenderness to the cake crumb.
• Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
• Baking soda: Works with buttermilk to promote an even lighter texture.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the richness of peanut butter.
• Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and a soft crumb while allowing control over saltiness.
• Creamy peanut butter: Infuses the entire cake and frosting with that irresistible nutty flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps with lightness when whipped with butter.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness, binding the ingredients into a smooth batter.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Buttermilk: Contributes tanginess and reacts with baking soda to fluff up the cake.
• M&M’s: The colorful, crunchy stars that delightfully surprise in every bite.
• Powdered sugar (for frosting): Gives the frosting its sweetness and perfect spreadable consistency.
• Milk (for frosting): Adjusts the frosting to the ideal texture for spreading.

How to Make M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake will release easily after baking and keeps those vibrant M&M’s intact on the surface.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry blend will provide a perfectly balanced rise and tender crumb to your cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until beautifully smooth. This creamy mixture sets the stage for a rich and luscious cake.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs

Next, add the granulated sugar and beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to brighten the flavors.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Flour Mixture and Buttermilk

Gradually mix in the flour mixture and buttermilk, alternating between the two and starting and ending with the flour. This careful mixing ensures your batter is smooth and well combined, without overworking the flour.

Step 6: Fold in the M&M’s

Gently fold in 1 cup of M&M’s, adding a cheerful pop of color and a crunchy contrast to the soft peanut buttery cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of peanut butter and vanilla filling your kitchen here is simply irresistible.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan to firm up, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for frosting success later on.

Step 9: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

While your cake cools, whip together the frosting by beating 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter until fluffy. Add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, beating until the frosting is smooth and perfectly spreadable.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate

Spread the luscious peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled cake and sprinkle extra M&M’s on top for that extra splash of fun and color that makes this cake truly shine.

How to Serve M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

The bright, candy-coated M&M’s are the ultimate garnish that completes this cake’s joyful look and adds delightful texture. You can also sprinkle chopped peanuts for an extra crunch or dust a light sprinkle of cocoa powder if you want a chocolatey hint alongside peanut butter.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to balance the richness. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk also makes the perfect companion for each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, try serving the cake on a colorful platter with a scattering of M&M’s around the edges. You might also cut individual portions into fun shapes using cookie cutters, perfect for parties or kids’ celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. Or refrigerate it for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting to ensure the best texture and taste.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but avoid heating the whole cake to prevent melting the frosting and softening the M&M’s.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

While creamy peanut butter provides a smooth texture perfect for both batter and frosting, using crunchy peanut butter can add a nice extra texture. Just be aware it may create small peanut chunks throughout the cake and frosting.

Are there any substitutes for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 3/4 cup milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the batter. This mimics buttermilk’s acidity and helps the cake rise perfectly.

Can I omit the M&M’s? What else can I add?

You can omit M&M’s if you prefer a more classic peanut butter cake or replace them with chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or other candies. Each variation brings a unique twist to the cake.

How thick should I frost the cake?

A generous 1/4 to 1/2 inch layer of frosting works beautifully. It complements the cake without overpowering it, while allowing the cake’s flavor and texture to shine through.

Is this cake suitable for parties and celebrations?

Absolutely! The colorful M&M’s and rich peanut butter frosting make this cake a crowd-pleaser at birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers. Its cheerful appearance and comforting flavor always bring smiles.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making this M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe enough—it’s simply delightful from start to finish. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe’s clear steps and brilliant flavors are guaranteed to impress both your friends and family. Treat yourself to this colorful, peanut buttery celebration; it’s a dessert everyone will adore!

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