M&M CHOCOLATE CAKE

INGREDIENTS

2 cups all-purpose flour
2½ cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon espresso powder
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
2 cups chocolate frosting
1½ cups M&M candies

INSTRUCTIONS

⿡ Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans and line with parchment paper.
⿢ In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
⿣ Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla to the flour mixture and mix together on medium speed until well combined.
⿤ Reduce speed and carefully add boiling water to the cake batter until well combined.
⿥ Distribute cake batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
⿦ Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely.
⿧ Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on your serving plate, spread a layer of chocolate frosting over it, then sprinkle a layer of M&M candies.
⿨ Place the second layer of cake on top, and then frost the outside of the cake with chocolate frosting.
⿩ Press the remaining M&M candies into the sides of the cake and sprinkle some on the top.