Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe

Rich, fudgy, and unapologetically indulgent, Mississippi Mud Cake is a Southern classic that’s as gooey as it is irresistible. Layers of moist chocolate cake, melted marshmallows, and a velvety chocolate frosting come together to create a dessert that’s pure decadence in every bite. Whether for potlucks, birthdays, or a weeknight treat, this cake never fails to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 2 cups granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1½ cups chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Marshmallow Layer:

  • 4 cups mini marshmallows (or one 10-oz bag)

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/3 cup milk

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 3½ cups powdered sugar

  • Instructions:

    1. Preheat & Prepare Pan:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

    2. Make the Cake Batter:
    In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, then eggs one at a time. Stir in flour, salt, nuts (if using), and vanilla until fully combined.

    3. Bake the Cake:
    Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

    4. Add Marshmallows:
    Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, scatter mini marshmallows over the hot cake. Let them melt slightly and gently spread them with a spatula if needed. Set aside.

    5. Make the Frosting:
    In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Stir in cocoa and milk, bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.

    6. Frost the Cake:
    Pour the warm frosting over the marshmallow layer and spread evenly.

    7. Cool & Serve:
    Allow the cake to cool completely to set before slicing into rich, gooey squares.

  • Tip: For extra indulgence, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

    Let me know if you’d like a gluten-free or nut-free version!

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