Easy M&M Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Frosting

Introduction

This Easy M&M Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Frosting is a delightful treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the vibrant fun of M&M’s, all wrapped up in a moist and delicious cake. What makes this recipe truly special is its accessibility and ease of preparation, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a dessert that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little creativity and joy to their baking repertoire.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the peanut butter and the sweetness of the cake and frosting creates a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist.
• The use of common ingredients makes this recipe highly accessible, and the steps are straightforward, ensuring that even the most novice bakers can achieve impressive results.
• Despite its simplicity, the addition of M&M’s on top adds a fun and creative touch, making it perfect for celebrations or everyday treats.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 1 cup M&M’s, for decoration
• For the frosting: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2-4 tablespoons whole milk

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
5. Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Step 6: For the frosting, beat the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and milk, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed, until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.
7. Step 7: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate with M&M’s.

Handy Tips

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
• Adjust the amount of milk in the frosting to achieve your desired consistency.

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s crucial to maintain your oven at a consistent 350°F (180°C) to ensure the cakes bake evenly and thoroughly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cakes after 25 minutes and check them every 5 minutes thereafter until they’re done.

Crunch Factor

The crunch in this recipe comes from the M&M’s, which add a delightful textural contrast to the moist cake and creamy frosting. To enhance the crunch, you can also sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of the frosting before decorating with M&M’s.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a high-quality peanut butter for the best flavor.
• If you find your frosting too thin, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up before frosting the cake.
• For a more intense peanut butter flavor, you can increase the peanut butter in the cake and frosting, but be cautious not to overpower the other flavors.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for birthdays and celebrations. Consider placing the cake on a decorative cake stand or plate, and wrapping it in clear plastic wrap or a cake box. You can decorate the outside with ribbons or bows to match the occasion, and include a personalized note or card for a thoughtful touch.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a teaspoon of sea salt to the batter for a salty-sweet contrast.
• Replace the M&M’s with chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for a different topping.
• For a chocolate peanut butter cake, add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the flour mixture.

Troubleshooting

• If your cake is too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Try mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and folding them together gently.
• If the frosting is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk.
• For cakes that are not baking evenly, check your oven temperature and ensure you’re using the correct size pans.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
• Is the cake gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just ensure you have enough pans and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Easy M&M Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Frosting is a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its moist cake, creamy frosting, and fun M&M’s on top, it’s perfect for any occasion. Remember, baking is all about experimentation and having fun, so don’t be afraid to try new things and make this recipe your own. Share your creations with friends and family, and enjoy the joy of baking together!