Craving a cake that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat? Fruity Pebble Cake is the perfect treat! It’s a colorful, vibrant dessert that brings a playful twist to your classic cake recipe.
Imagine soft, fluffy layers of cake filled with crunchy bursts of Fruity Pebbles in every bite. The cereal adds a unique texture and flavor that’s irresistible for kids and adults alike. This cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic trip back to your favorite childhood breakfasts.
The best part? It’s super easy to make, so you don’t need to be a master baker. Whether it’s for a birthday, a special occasion, or just because, this Fruity Pebble Cake will steal the show and put a smile on everyone’s face.
Ready to whip up this fun and flavorful cake? Let’s dive into the recipe and start baking your new favorite dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Fruity Pebble Cake
This cake isn’t just a visual delight—it’s also packed with the delicious fruity flavor of Fruity Pebbles. Here’s why you’ll love making and eating this cake:
- Bursting with Fruity Flavor: Every bite brings the familiar taste of Fruity Pebbles, thanks to the cereal milk and crumb layers.
- Perfect for Celebrations: The colorful layers make this cake a show-stopper at any event.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture: The combination of buttermilk and oil in the batter ensures a soft and tender crumb.
- Fun to Make: It’s an enjoyable baking project, especially when you involve family or friends.
- Great for Kids: With its bright colors and fun flavors, kids will love both making and eating this cake.
Key Ingredients for Fruity Pebble Cake
Cake Batter
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Fruity Pebbles Cereal: The star of the show! Adds both flavor and texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cake.
- Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and create a rich texture.
- Oil: Keeps the cake moist for days.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
Cereal Milk Frosting
- Unsalted Butter: The base of the frosting, providing a creamy texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Cereal Milk: Adds the Fruity Pebbles flavor to the frosting.
Preparing the Fruity Pebble Cake
Step 1: Soak the Fruity Pebbles in Buttermilk
One of the key steps in this recipe is soaking the Fruity Pebbles in buttermilk. This helps infuse the buttermilk with the fruity flavor, which is then used in the cake batter and frosting.
- Combine 1/2 cup of Fruity Pebbles with 1 cup of buttermilk. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the cereal to soften and release its flavor into the milk.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
After soaking the cereal, it’s time to prepare the cake batter. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 6-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/2 cup canola oil, and 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 3 large eggs (one at a time) and beat until fully incorporated.
- Stir in 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and 3/4 tsp lemon extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the cereal-soaked buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Bake the cake layers for 25-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Cereal Milk Crumb
The Fruity Pebble crumb adds a crunchy layer to the cake, giving it extra texture and flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a bowl, mix together 4 tbsp melted butter, 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup Fruity Pebbles, and 1/2 tsp baking powder.
- Spread the mixture onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cereal Milk Frosting
This frosting is infused with the flavor of Fruity Pebbles, giving it a deliciously sweet and fruity taste.
- In a stand mixer, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until smooth.
- Gradually add 1 1/4 cup powdered sugar and mix on low until fully combined.
- Slowly add 2 tbsp of the cereal milk (from the soaked Fruity Pebbles) and beat on high speed until light and fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the Fruity Pebble cake.
- Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cooled cake layers.
- Brush each layer with some of the cereal milk to keep them moist.
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate and spread a layer of cereal milk frosting on top.
- Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the cereal crumb on the frosting.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, ending with the last cake layer.
- Frost the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat). Chill the cake for 20 minutes to set the crumb coat, then apply a final layer of frosting.
- Decorate the top of the cake with more Fruity Pebbles and any leftover cereal crumb.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Fruity Pebble Cake
To ensure your Fruity Pebble Cake turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the ingredients blend together smoothly, resulting in a more consistent cake texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to be dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Cake Before Frosting: Chilling the cake makes it easier to frost and prevents crumbs from getting into the frosting.
- Use a Pastry Brush: Lightly brushing the cake layers with cereal milk ensures they stay moist without becoming soggy.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: You can also freeze the cake. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw slices in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
Can I Use Other Cereals for This Cake?
Absolutely! While Fruity Pebbles provide a unique fruity flavor, you can experiment with other cereals like Cocoa Pebbles or even Fruit Loops for a different twist.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator.