Description

Few desserts capture the essence of Southern indulgence quite like the Mississippi Mud Cake. Imagine a rich, fudgy chocolate cake soaked in a buttery brown sugar syrup, topped immediately with a blanket of pillowy marshmallows, crunchy toasted pecans, and then smothered in a silky chocolate icing. Every bite is a decadent experience—a medley of textures and deep cocoa flavor that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s dreams.

This cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a statement. Its name evokes images of the dark, muddy banks of the Mississippi River, and its flavor is just as deep and irresistible. Whether you’re planning a potluck, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something spectacular, this Southern classic will always steal the show.

Ingredients

• For the cake:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• For the icing:
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup milk (plus more as needed)
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional Toppings:
• Extra pecans for garnish
• Flaky sea salt
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
3. In another bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture and stir until combined. Fold in vanilla and pecans if using.
4. Pour batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
5. Sprinkle mini marshmallows on the hot cake and let sit for 5 minutes, then spread them gently.
6. For icing, mix softened butter and cocoa in a bowl. Add milk and stir until smooth, then whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
7. Pour warm icing over the marshmallows and spread evenly. Let the cake cool completely before slicing.

Tips and Conclusion

Want to elevate this cake even more? Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a flavor twist, drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top before serving. You can also add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter for a mocha boost!

Storage Tip: Keep covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and plastic for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to bring back that gooey, just-baked magic.

This Mississippi Mud Cake is everything a chocolate dessert should be—fudgy, gooey, rich, and comforting. Its layers of texture and bold flavors make it a true showstopper, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s served at a potluck or as a decadent weeknight treat, it’s guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.

Craving more indulgent bakes? Check out our Gooey Chocolate Chip Bars, S’mores Sheet Cake, or Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies for more irresistible desserts. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—we love seeing what you bake!