Butter M&M Cake

Description:
This Peanut Butter M&M Cake is the ultimate treat for peanut butter lovers! A moist, flavorful peanut butter cake is layered with rich frosting and packed with colorful M&Ms for a fun, festive touch. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or any occasion that calls for a burst of sweetness!

Ingredients (Serves 8-10)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
• Baking powder: 2 tsp
• Baking soda: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup (1 stick or 115 g)
• Creamy peanut butter: ¾ cup (190 g)
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
• Brown sugar (packed): ½ cup (100 g)
• Eggs: 3 large
• Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240 ml)

For the Frosting:

• Creamy peanut butter: ¾ cup (190 g)
• Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup (1 stick or 115 g)
• Powdered sugar: 3 cups (360 g)
• Heavy cream: 2-3 tbsp (adjust for consistency)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp

For the Topping:

• M&Ms: 1½ cups (200 g)
• Chopped peanuts (optional): ¼ cup (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating on high until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more cream if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top.
2. Sprinkle half of the M&Ms on the frosting layer, pressing them in gently.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
4. Decorate with the remaining M&Ms and chopped peanuts, if using.

Step 5: Serve

1. Chill the cake for 20-30 minutes to set the frosting, then slice and serve.

Tips for Success:

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter, peanut butter, and eggs are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Peanut butter type: Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; natural peanut butter may separate and affect the consistency.
• Decorating: For an extra festive look, use holiday-themed M&Ms or drizzle melted chocolate over the top.

Recommendations:

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Variation: Add a layer of chocolate ganache for a rich twist or mix mini M&Ms into the cake batter for bursts of color inside.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Nutrition (Per Slice, based on 10 servings):

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 10 g
• Fat: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Sugar: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g

This vibrant, flavorful Peanut Butter M&M Cake is a showstopper that tastes as good as it looks!