If you’re searching for a dessert that combines creamy peanut butter with the colorful crunch of M&M’s candy, look no further than the Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake. This treat not only bursts with flavor but also delivers layers of texture and sweetness that keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a fun dessert, this cake will wow you with its perfectly balanced taste and eye-catching appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A flavor explosion: Peanut butter and chocolate come together for a rich, creamy, and sweet combo that never disappoints.
Fun, colorful crunch: M&M’s add vibrant pops of color and a satisfying crunch that elevate each slice.
Easy to customize: Whether you like more peanut butter or extra chocolate, this recipe is flexible to fit your preferences.
Perfect for any occasion: From birthday parties to casual get-togethers, this cake brings joy and smiles instantly.
Simple to make: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have this show-stopping cake ready in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake starts with a few essential ingredients that create its signature flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role in delivering moistness, sweetness, and that irresistible nutty undertone.

All-purpose flour: The base ingredient that builds the cake’s soft, spongy structure.
Creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich, velvety texture and deep nutty flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly and helps with browning.
Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the cake a light and fluffy crumb.
Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients seamlessly.
Milk or buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor complexity.
M&M’s: The colorful stars of the show, adding bursts of chocolatey crunch throughout.
Butter or oil: Infuses richness and keeps the cake soft for days.
Optional frosting: Cream cheese or peanut butter frosting pairs beautifully to finish the cake.

Variations for Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake

Feel free to make this cake your own! It’s incredibly easy to tweak depending on your ingredient availability, dietary preferences, or whether you want a different flavor vibe.

Chocolate lovers’ twist: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a double chocolate and peanut butter treat.
Nut-free option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to avoid nuts.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend without sacrificing texture or taste.
Extra crunch: Toss in chopped peanuts or pretzel pieces alongside the M&M’s.
Healthier alternative: Swap sugar for coconut sugar and use Greek yogurt instead of butter for a moist feel.

Why Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake Will Wow You

How to Make Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your cake pans with butter or nonstick spray. Let the peanut butter soften at room temperature so it combines smoothly with other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a perfect rise.

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients

Using a mixer or hand whisk, blend softened peanut butter, sugar, and butter (or oil) until light and fluffy. Then, add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternating with milk or buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain tender crumb.

Step 5: Fold in M&M’s

Save a handful of M&M’s for topping, then carefully fold the rest into the batter for a colorful surprise in every bite.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Spread your chosen frosting over the cooled layers and sprinkle reserved M&M’s on top for a festive finish that’s as fun as it is delicious.

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure everything is at room temp for smoother mixing and better texture.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
Use quality peanut butter: Natural, creamy peanut butter enhances flavor and consistency.
Even layer distribution: Weigh your batter per pan for uniform thickness and baking time.
Freeze M&M’s: For even distribution, freeze M&M’s before folding them into the batter to prevent sinking.

How to Serve Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake

Garnishes

Top slices with extra M&M’s, a drizzle of melted peanut butter, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts to add visual appeal and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich cake flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering in a trifle bowl for a crowd-pleasing dessert, or create mini cupcakes for bite-sized party treats that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can swap crunchy peanut butter for a bit of added texture, but keep in mind it will make the cake slightly less smooth.

Are there dairy-free options for the frosting?

Absolutely! Coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese are great alternatives that still add creamy richness.

Do I need to chill the cake before frosting?

It’s best to cool the cake completely so the frosting spreads smoothly without melting or sliding off.

Can I bake this cake as cupcakes?

Definitely! Just reduce baking time to about 18-22 minutes and watch closely to avoid overbaking.

What size pan works best for this recipe?

A 9-inch round or square cake pan works perfectly, giving you a nice thickness and even bake.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake is a joyful blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard not to make it a go-to dessert, bringing smiles and happy cravings to your table again and again. So, grab your ingredients and dive into making this colorful, peanut butter-powered delight—you won’t regret a single bite!

Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake

Print Recipe

Peanut Butter M&M’s Cake is a rich, creamy, and colorful dessert combining the nutty flavor of peanut butter with the vibrant crunch of M&M’s candy. This moist and tender cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, ideal for celebrations or casual treats. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it delivers a fun and delicious experience that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Author: Judy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 1 9-inch two-layer cake (about 12 slices) 1x
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Contains gluten and nuts (can be adapted gluten-free and nut-free)

Ingredients

Scale

Drys

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

Wets

1 cup creamy peanut butter (softened)
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter or oil (softened)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk or buttermilk

Extras

1 1/2 cups M&M’s candy (reserve about 1/4 cup for topping)
Optional frosting: cream cheese or peanut butter frosting

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pans with butter or nonstick spray. Let the peanut butter soften at room temperature to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to ensure even distribution for a perfect rise.
Cream Wet Ingredients: Using a mixer or hand whisk, blend softened peanut butter, sugar, and butter (or oil) until light and fluffy. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternating with milk or buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
Fold in M&M’s: Reserve a handful of M&M’s for topping, then carefully fold the rest into the batter for colorful bursts in every slice.
Bake and Cool: Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Frost and Decorate: Spread your chosen frosting over the cooled layers and sprinkle reserved M&M’s on top for a fun and festive finish.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
Use natural, creamy peanut butter for enhanced flavor and consistency.
Weigh batter per pan for even layer thickness and uniform baking.
Freeze M&M’s before folding into batter to prevent sinking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 28 g
Sodium: 220 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: peanut butter cake, M&M cake, chocolate peanut butter dessert, colorful cake, party cake