I find this M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting to be a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the colorful crunch of M&M’s. The moist cake layers, infused with peanut butter flavor, are complemented by a smooth and fluffy peanut butter frosting, making it a perfect treat for any celebration or simply to satisfy my sweet tooth. M&M's Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together two of my favorite flavors: peanut butter and chocolate. The addition of M&M’s not only adds a pop of color but also a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and creamy frosting. It’s a fun and festive dessert that’s always a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup M&M’s, plus more for decoration

For the Frosting:

½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the M&M’s. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
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 to a wire rack to cool completely.
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.
Spread frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate with additional M&M’s as desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Nutty Twist: I sometimes add chopped peanuts or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch.
Chocolate Lovers: For a richer flavor, I replace some of the M&M’s with chocolate chips or add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers.
Different M&M’s: Using different flavors of M&M’s, like peanut or caramel, gives the cake a unique taste and texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to a week. Before serving, I let it come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use different M&M’s flavors?

Yes, I can use peanut, pretzel, or caramel M&M’s for a different flavor and texture.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake gluten-free.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, I wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. I thaw them 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.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture to the cake and frosting.

Conclusion

I find this M&M’s Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting to be a delightful and festive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of moist peanut butter cake, creamy frosting, and colorful M&M’s creates a treat that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Whether I’m baking for a party or simply indulging my sweet tooth, this cake is always a hit.