Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake
This moist cake features creamy layers and colourful chocolate candies, making it ideal for festive gatherings. The batter is blended with smooth peanut butter and plenty of M&M’s for a delightful texture in every bite. Topped with light peanut butter frosting and extra candies, this cake is sure to be a showstopper at any celebration. Using buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while vanilla enhances the aroma. For the best results, make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking to achieve a fluffy, even bake. Both peanut butter fans and chocolate lovers will find plenty to enjoy in this classic American dessert.
This peanut butter cake has brought so much joy to family birthdays and cosy gatherings. With its rich, creamy layers dotted with colourful M&Ms and topped with luscious peanut butter frosting, it is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves classic American treats.
Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
– Uses common pantry ingredients
– Delivers a bold peanut butter flavour in every bite
– Perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or special weekends
– Soft crumb with a fun pop of chocolate
– Crowd-pleasing and visually cheerful with bright M&Ms
I first made this for my daughter’s birthday when she asked for something “peanut buttery and pretty”, and it quickly became my go-to celebration cake for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– All-purpose flour: Use a fresh, soft flour for the best results and a reliable structure.
Baking powder and baking soda: These help the cake to rise and lighten the crumb. Always check that they are not past their expiry date.
Salt: This balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavour. Use fine sea salt for even mixing.
Unsalted butter at room temperature: Provides richness and a tender texture. Choose a quality brand for added flavour.
– Creamy peanut butter: Adds creamy, nutty depth. Try to use a smooth variety for the best results.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens and adds moisture. Make sure it is free of lumps.
Eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure. Use large eggs at room temperature for even blending.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavours. Pure vanilla provides the best aroma.
Buttermilk: Gives the cake tenderness and a delicate tang. Always shake the container before pouring and measure carefully.
M&Ms: Add pops of chocolate and colour. Use fresh ones so they stay snappy and bright.
Unsalted butter for frosting: Creates a smooth, creamy base. As above, room temperature is key.
Creamy peanut butter for frosting: Delivers maximum peanut flavour. Follow the same tips as above.
Powdered sugar for frosting: Sweetens and creates smoothness. Sift if lumpy.
Heavy cream for frosting: Adds extra fluffiness and helps to achieve a spreadable consistency. Use full-fat, cold cream.
Vanilla extract for frosting: Provides aroma and balances the peanut flavour.
Extra M&Ms for topping: Makes the cake festive and colourful.
Step-by-step instructions
1.Prepare the cake pans:
Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2.Mix the dry ingredients:
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl to distribute the ingredients evenly and aerate the mixture.
3.Cream the butter and peanut butter:
Beat the butter, which should be at room temperature, with the peanut butter until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This ensures an even flavour throughout the base and prevents it from being oily.
4.Add the sugar and eggs:
Gradually beat in the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, then add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. This process allows the batter to trap more air, resulting in a tender cake.
Add the vanilla extract and stir to build up the aroma and unify the flavours.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk.
Add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the batter alternately, starting and ending with the flour. This gradual process reduces overmixing and keeps the cake tender.
5.Fold in the M&Ms:
Gently stir in the M&Ms to avoid breaking their shells. They will melt slightly in the oven, creating a fun, colourful effect.
6.Divide and bake:
Evenly distribute the batter into your prepared pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The cakes are ready when a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean and the tops are golden.
7.Cool the cakes:
Let them rest in their pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack. If you rush this step, the cakes could crack.
8.Prepare the frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter together until creamy. Then, gradually add the icing sugar, followed by the heavy cream and vanilla, and whip everything together until the mixture is light, fluffy and completely smooth.
9.Assemble and frost:
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate, cover with frosting, then top with the second cake. Frost the top and sides, using an offset spatula to achieve a truly even finish.
10.Decorate:
Scatter extra M&Ms on top for a festive and playful finish!
Things you must know:
– Delivers a comforting peanut butter flavour with a celebratory twist.
– Vegetarian-friendly.
– Cake layers can be made in advance.
– Frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
Peanut butter is one of my favourite ingredients because of its nostalgic, creamy taste. It reminds me of after-school snacks with my brother. We would always sneak a spoonful when baking together, and now this cake brings back those sweet, simple memories with every slice.
Storage tips:
– Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to two days.
– If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, move it to the fridge, where it will keep for about four days.
– Let refrigerated slices sit out briefly before serving for the best texture.
– The baked cake layers can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to two months.
– Before frosting, let them thaw completely at room temperature.
Ingredient substitutions
If you have run out of buttermilk, you can make your own by stirring a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into half a cup of milk and leaving it to thicken. Natural-style peanut butter works, but it must be thoroughly stirred to avoid oil separation.
If you want to make this a nut-free treat, use sunflower seed butter and swap the M&Ms for a nut-free chocolate sweet.
Serving suggestions
Serve generous slices with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a birthday treat, add candles and a colourful selection of sprinkles along with the M&Ms. This cake can also be baked as cupcakes; simply reduce the baking time to 15–18 minutes.
Pro tips:
– Always work with room-temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and even baking.
– Do not overmix once you add the flour to keep the crumb soft and tender.
– Use a gentle hand when stirring in the M&Ms so their colours do not bleed into the batter.
Recipe FAQs:
– How do I ensure the cake stays moist?
Use buttermilk and room-temperature butter for a tender, moist crumb. Avoid over-baking by checking with a toothpick.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Creamy peanut butter with stabilisers works best to achieve a smooth texture, but natural versions may be used if stirred well.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer.
Can different sweets be substituted for M&M’s?
Yes, try mini chocolate chips, Reese’s Pieces or chopped peanut butter cups to add variety in terms of flavour and colour.
How do I achieve smooth frosting?
Beat the butter and peanut butter thoroughly before gradually adding icing sugar and double cream to achieve a fluffy, spreadable consistency.
