Easy M&M Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Frosting

Introduction

This delectable M&M Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Frosting is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor, perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of peanut butter, M&M’s, and a moist cake, all topped with a creamy frosting, is a match made in heaven. Using everyday ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with your baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress with its ease, flavor, and the joy it brings to both the maker and the eater.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors, with the richness of peanut butter complemented by the sweetness of M&M’s, creates a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist.
• The accessibility of the ingredients means you can make this cake without having to search for specialty items, making it perfect for spontaneous baking sessions.
• Despite its impressive results, the cake requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when you need a quick dessert for a gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 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 M&M’s
• For the frosting: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°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. Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Stir in the M&M’s.
5. Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Step 6: 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.
7. Step 7: For the frosting, beat the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract. Add the heavy cream, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed, until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.
8. Step 8: 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.

Handy Tips

• To ensure your cake is moist, don’t overmix the batter, and make sure to not overbake.
• If you find your frosting too thin, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up before re-beating it.
• Consider using a cake stand to display your finished cake, as it adds a nice touch to the presentation.

Heat Control

For this recipe, maintaining the right oven temperature is crucial. Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of underbaking slightly, as the cakes will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the oven.

Crunch Factor

The M&M’s add a delightful crunch to the cake, providing a nice textural contrast to the moist peanut butter cake and creamy frosting. To maintain this crunch, it’s best to add the M&M’s towards the end of the mixing process, so they don’t get crushed into the batter.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a more intense peanut butter flavor, use natural peanut butter that hasn’t been mixed with other ingredients.
• Investing in a good quality electric mixer can make a significant difference in the consistency and fluffiness of your cake and frosting.
• If you’re not planning to frost the cake immediately, you can store the cooled cakes in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Storage Tips

• The unfrosted cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Once frosted, the cake is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• When freezing, consider slicing the cake first and then freezing the slices individually for easier thawing and serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for birthdays or as a surprise treat. Consider decorating the cake with additional M&M’s or chopped peanuts for a more festive look. You can also package slices of the cake in decorative jars or containers, perfect for a sweet gift or care package.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a teaspoon of salt to the batter to enhance the peanut butter flavor.
• Experiment with different types of candy or nuts for a unique twist, such as chopped peanut butter cups or Reese’s Pieces.
• For a chocolate lover’s dream, add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the frosting or mix cocoa powder into the batter for a mocha flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If your cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Try mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and gently folding them together.
• If the frosting is too runny, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm it up. If it’s too thick, add a little more heavy cream.
• Keep an eye on your cakes while they’re baking, as oven temperatures can vary. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the cake with foil to prevent overbrowning.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the frosted cake? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the cake unfrosted and then frost it after thawing for the best texture.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe includes all-purpose flour and is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance without significant modifications.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, as a larger cake will take longer to cook through.

Conclusion

Making the Easy M&M Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Frosting is a delightful experience that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the joy of creating something truly special. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy your sweet tooth. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, sharing your creations and the joy of baking with others. Happy baking!