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M&M's Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

A delicious cake that combines creamy peanut butter and vibrant M&M's for a delightful dessert experience.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cake with Frosting, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe, M&M's Cake, Peanut Butter Cake
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour This flour creates a soft and tender cake base, providing structure without being dense.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar This sugar adds sweetness that balances perfectly with the rich flavors.
  • 1 cup brown sugar Offering a hint of molasses, this sugar adds depth and moisture to the cake.
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Cocoa brings a robust chocolate flavor, making each bite a dreamy experience.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder A necessary leavening agent, ensuring the cake rises beautifully.
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda Works with the acidic buttermilk for a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt A dash of salt enhances all the flavors, making them sing!
  • 1 cup buttermilk This creamy, tangy ingredient creates a moist crumb.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Adding richness while keeping the cake light and fluffy.
  • 2 large eggs These bind the ingredients and add structure.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract This adds a warm, aromatic essence that complements the other flavors.
  • 1 cup hot water Enhances the chocolate flavor and provides a silky batter.
  • 1 cup M&M’s Peanut Butter These candies bring pops of flavor and texture throughout the cake.

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) Essential for creating the creamiest frosting imaginable.
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter The star of the frosting, this adds a velvety mouthfeel with its rich flavor.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Provides the sweetness and structure for the frosting.
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream This rich ingredient helps create a luxurious, spreadable frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) A little touch of warmth in the frosting.
  • to taste M&M’s Peanut Butter for decoration These vibrant candies elevate the cake’s appearance and taste.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  • Gradually stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth.
  • Fold in the M&M’s Peanut Butter.

Baking

  • Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 30-35 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.

Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.
  • Gradually add in the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until rich and spreadable. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spreading a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer atop and frost the top and sides of the cake.
  • Decorate with additional M&M’s Peanut Butter.

Serving

  • Slice and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, measure ingredients accurately and ensure they are at room temperature. Do not over-mix the batter for a tender cake.