The Peeps Cake combines everything wonderful about Easter celebrations into one stunning dessert. Marshmallow Peeps have been bringing smiles to faces for generations, and transforming these iconic candies into a cake decoration creates an instant showstopper for your holiday table. The vibrant colors of the layered cake paired with the whimsical Peeps topping captures the joyful spirit of spring.
What makes this festive Easter cake so appealing is its perfect balance of nostalgia and creativity. Since the 1950s, Peeps have been an Easter basket staple, and incorporating them into a cake adds a playful twist to traditional desserts. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – from sophisticated pastel layers for adult gatherings to bold rainbow colors that delight children. Looking for churro-themed kitchen accessories to complement your Easter baking? Our shop has everything you need!
Peeps Cake
Equipment
- 9-inch cake pans
- Oven
- Cake Turntable
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups buttercream frosting
- 12 pieces Peeps marshmallow chicks assorted colors
- 1/4 cup pastel sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk alternately, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost the cooled cakes with buttercream frosting, smoothing the top and sides.
- Arrange Peeps marshmallow chicks around the edges and top of the cake.
- Sprinkle pastel sprinkles over the top for decoration.
- Chill the cake for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Customization: Use colored frosting to match different Peeps varieties.
- Layering Tip: Add a filling of marshmallow fluff between layers for extra sweetness.
Nutrition
The Sweet History Behind Peeps Cake
The story of the Peeps Cake begins with the creation of Peeps themselves. These marshmallow treats were first manufactured in 1953 by the Rodda Candy Company, which was later acquired by Just Born. Initially hand-piped and taking 27 hours to create, modern manufacturing has streamlined the process, allowing Just Born to produce over 1.5 billion Peeps annually.
The transformation of Peeps from candy to cake decoration emerged naturally as bakers looked for creative ways to incorporate Easter symbols into their desserts. The Instagram era has certainly contributed to the Peeps Cake’s popularity, with its photogenic layers and colorful design making it perfect for social media sharing. You can even submit your own dessert recipe featuring Peeps to be showcased alongside other creative Easter treats!
What started as a simple way to use leftover Easter candy has evolved into an Easter baking tradition for many families. The Peeps Cake’s appeal spans generations – grandparents recognize the nostalgic candy from their childhood, while children are drawn to the bright colors and playful design. This multi-generational appeal makes it a perfect centerpiece for Easter gatherings.
Everything You Need for the Perfect Peeps Cake
Creating your own Best Peeps Cake for 2025 requires gathering specific ingredients and equipment. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this colorful Easter dessert:
Equipment needed:
- Three 9-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls (at least 4)
- Rubber spatulas
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling racks
- Offset spatula for frosting
- Cake stand or serving plate
Ingredients for the cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Gel food coloring (pink, yellow, blue)
Ingredients for the frosting:
- 2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
For decorating:
- 24 Bunny Peeps (assorted colors)
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- Green food coloring (for coconut “grass”)
- Easter M&M’s or other small Easter candies
If you’re looking for additional Easter dessert ideas, consider pairing your Peeps Cake with Easter bird nest cookies for a complete holiday dessert table.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Peeps Cake
Follow these detailed instructions to create a showstopping Peeps Cake that will impress everyone at your Easter celebration:
Preparation (15 minutes):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper circles.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Make the cake batter (15 minutes):
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition.
Color and bake the cakes (30 minutes):
- Divide the batter evenly into three separate bowls.
- Add pink gel food coloring to one bowl, yellow to the second, and blue to the third. Stir each until the color is fully incorporated.
- Pour each colored batter into its prepared cake pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to cooling racks to cool completely.
Make the buttercream frosting (15 minutes):
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing to combine.
- Add the heavy cream and beat on high speed for 3-4 minutes until frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, one tablespoon at a time.
Assemble and decorate (20 minutes):
- Place the blue cake layer on your cake stand or serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top.
- Place the yellow cake layer on top and repeat with buttercream.
- Add the pink layer on top.
- Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting over the entire cake, then refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- After chilling, apply the final coat of frosting, making it smooth or textured as desired.
- For the “grass,” place coconut flakes in a zip-top bag with a few drops of green food coloring. Seal the bag and shake until the coconut is evenly colored.
- Sprinkle the green coconut around the top edge of the cake.
- Arrange the Peeps bunnies standing up around the edge of the cake, pressing them gently into the frosting.
- Fill the center with Easter M&M’s or other small Easter candies.
For another delightful Easter candy creation, try making Easter egg cookie dough truffles to serve alongside your magnificent cake.
Nutritional Information and Recipe Details
This Peeps Cake recipe creates a dessert that serves 12-16 people, depending on how you slice it. Here’s the complete nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 14 servings):
- Calories: 675
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 275mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 92g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 76g
- Protein: 4g
The total preparation time for this Peeps Cake is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Decorating Time: 20 minutes
Recipe notes: For best results, ensure all refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. This helps create a smoother batter and more consistent baking. The gel food coloring is preferred over liquid as it provides more vibrant colors without altering the cake’s texture.
Creative Variations and Helpful Tips
The beauty of the Peeps Cake lies in its versatility. Here are some creative variations and helpful tips to make this Easter dessert truly your own:
Flavor variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist
- Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a more sophisticated flavor
- Incorporate a layer of strawberry or lemon curd between cake layers
- Try a cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream for a tangy contrast
- Add ½ cup of sprinkles to the batter for a funfetti effect
Design variations:
- Create a checkerboard effect by using cake ring dividers or cutting and arranging cake circles
- Make an ombré effect with varying shades of the same color
- Create a “peekaboo” design by cutting a hole in the center and filling it with candies
- Try a naked or semi-naked cake style, with frosting only between layers and minimal coating on the sides
- Use a drip technique with colored white chocolate for an elegant finish
For the checkerboard design, divide each colored batter into two parts. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out centers of each cake layer after baking and cooling. Interchange the colored rings and reassemble with frosting. This creates a striking interior pattern that will amaze your guests when you slice the cake.
If you’re hosting a complete Easter celebration, consider adding Easter M&M cookies to your dessert menu for even more festive treats. Looking for a local dessert shop that offers similar Easter specialties? Check out our business directory to find options near you!
Storing Your Peeps Cake Properly
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and appearance of your Peeps Cake. Follow these guidelines to keep your Easter dessert looking and tasting its best:
Room temperature storage: The Peeps Cake can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days if your home isn’t too warm. Place it in a cake carrier or cover loosely with a cake dome. Avoid plastic wrap directly on the frosting as it will stick and damage the decoration.
Refrigerator storage: When storing Peeps Cake in the refrigerator, first chill the cake uncovered for 15-20 minutes to set the frosting. Then cover with a cake dome or place in an airtight container. The cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Remove from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer storage: For longer storage, the Peeps Cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze a decorated cake, place it uncovered in the freezer until the frosting hardens (about 2 hours). Then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. For best results, remove the Peeps before freezing and add them after thawing, as marshmallows don’t freeze well.
When ready to enjoy your frozen Peeps Cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight while still wrapped. Then bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving. If you removed the Peeps before freezing, reattach them once the cake has thawed completely. Looking for more Easter desserts for family fun? Check out our collection for additional holiday treats!
Celebrating Easter with Your Showstopping Creation
The Peeps Cake represents more than just a delicious dessert – it’s a celebration of Easter traditions and the joy of gathering with loved ones. When you present this colorful creation at your Easter table, you’re serving up a slice of happiness that bridges generations. The familiar sight of those iconic marshmallow Peeps perched atop vibrant cake layers creates an instant connection to cherished holiday memories.
What makes this Easter dessert so special is its ability to spark conversation and delight. Children will be amazed by the rainbow of colors, while adults will appreciate the thoughtful homemade touch. Consider pairing your Peeps Cake with other Easter egg dessert ideas for a complete holiday spread that everyone will remember.
The beauty of creating this festive cake lies in the process itself. Baking is an act of love, and holiday baking traditions create lasting memories. Whether you’re making this cake with children who help add the colorful layers or surprising family members with your creative skills, the Peeps Cake brings people together in celebration. From my kitchen to yours, I hope this Best Peeps Cake Recipe for 2025 brings color, joy, and deliciousness to your Easter celebration!