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

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper) to prevent sticking.

2. Make the peanut butter cake batter:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the peanut butter, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the peanut butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  • Fold in the sour cream and M&M’s (reserving a handful for topping the cake).

3. Bake the cake:

  • Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Make the peanut butter frosting:

  • In a medium bowl, beat together the peanut butter and unsalted butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
  • Add milk or heavy cream a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired frosting consistency (you want it thick but spreadable).

5. Assemble the cake:

  • Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top of the first cake layer.
  • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
  • Sprinkle the top with reserved M&M’s and any additional decorations you’d like.

6. Serve:

  • Slice and serve the cake! It’s best served at room temperature, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.