Extravagant Chocolate M&M Party Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Decoration:
- 2 cups M&Ms
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round baking pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined. Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing on low speed until smooth. The batter will be thin.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
- To make the frosting, beat the butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until combined.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat. Place the third cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate the top and sides of the cake with M&Ms and mini chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
FAQs:
- What ingredients are needed for the Ultimate Chocolate M&M Celebration Cake?
- For the cake, you will need all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and boiling water. For the frosting, you will need butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. You will also need M&M candies for decoration and potentially chocolate ganache for an extra touch.
- How do I prevent the M&Ms from sinking into the cake batter?
- To prevent M&Ms from sinking, lightly coat them with a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps suspend them in the batter and ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
- Can I use different flavors of M&Ms for this cake?
- Yes, you can use different flavors of M&Ms to customize the cake. Peanut, peanut butter, caramel, or any other variety of M&Ms can add unique flavors and textures to your cake. Mix and match to suit your taste preferences.
- How should I decorate the Ultimate Chocolate M&M Celebration Cake?
- After frosting the cake, press M&Ms into the frosting to create a colorful and festive design. You can cover the entire cake with M&Ms, create patterns, or simply sprinkle them on top. For an extra special touch, drizzle chocolate ganache over the top before adding the M&Ms.
- How do I store the Ultimate Chocolate M&M Celebration Cake?
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your frosting contains dairy, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the M&Ms from losing their crunch, add them just before serving if storing for an extended period. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.