The Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe is a beloved classic that brings together rich chocolatey goodness with gooey marshmallows and a luscious homemade frosting. This cake’s dense, fudgy texture paired with the soft, melty marshmallow topping makes it an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers everywhere. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just craving a decadent dessert, this recipe always delivers remarkable flavor and comforting warmth, making it a true favorite to keep in your baking repertoire.

Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making a show-stopping Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that luxurious and satisfying cake—from the richness of butter and cocoa powder to the sweet softness of mini marshmallows, every element is essential for the perfect finished dessert.

1 cup butter, melted: Provides the rich and moist base that keeps the cake tender and decadent.
1/2 cup cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark color.
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while balancing the bitterness of cocoa.
4 large eggs: Help bind ingredients and add structure and richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with warm, fragrant notes.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure with a light crumb.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Allows the cake to rise slightly, keeping it from being too dense.
1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness.
1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows: Melts to create a gooey, irresistible top layer.
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
1/2 cup butter (for frosting): Forms the base of the rich frosting that crowns the cake.
1/4 cup cocoa powder (for frosting): Deepens the chocolate flavor in the frosting.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
1/4 cup milk (for frosting): Adjusts frosting consistency for smooth spreading.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the frosting.

How to Make Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly. This small prep step sets the stage for a flawless bake every time.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients and Cocoa

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Stir these together until they meld into a glossy, chocolatey base. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is completely smooth. This rich mixture is the heart of your Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

Next, gently fold in the flour, salt, baking powder, and milk. Take your time mixing until just combined. You want a batter that’s silky and easy to pour, which will give your cake that perfect fudgy texture.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go. The cake’s interior should be moist but cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Marshmallow Topping

While the cake is still warm, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the surface. Return the pan to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes just until the marshmallows soften and begin to melt into a gooey layer, bringing that signature Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe charm.

Step 6: Cool Slightly Before Frosting

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. The cake should be warm enough to help the frosting spread easily but not so hot that it melts your frosting into a mess.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cocoa powder together. Stir in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, whisking continuously until smooth and glossy. This luscious frosting is what truly makes the Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe stand out.

Step 8: Frost and Garnish

Pour the silky frosting over the warm cake and spread it out evenly. If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top. Let the frosting set as the cake cools completely.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, cut your cake into squares and get ready to indulge in each moist, chocolatey bite. The combination of textures and flavors in the Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe is nothing short of spectacular.

How to Serve Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on each serving for a creamy contrast to the dense cake. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce to elevate presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, which add a bright, tart note to balance the richness. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk also make perfect companions to the indulgent sweetness of the Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or even chili flakes for a daring twist. For parties, cut the cake into small bites and serve on a vibrant platter, garnished with mint leaves to make your dessert table truly inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and preserves the melt-in-your-mouth texture without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the creamy frosting and signature gooey marshmallow topping.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, microwave individual slices for about 15 seconds or reheat in a low oven for around 5-7 minutes. This brings back the freshly-baked charm and melts the marshmallows slightly once again.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes! If you prefer, you can chop regular-sized marshmallows into smaller pieces before sprinkling them on the cake for that same gooey effect, but mini marshmallows work best for even melting.

Is it possible to make the Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup the same way. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of nut or omit nuts altogether?

Definitely. Pecans or walnuts are traditional, but feel free to use almonds or hazelnuts, or skip the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version. The frosting and marshmallows provide plenty of texture as is.

What is the best way to get the frosting smooth?

Whisk the frosting constantly over medium heat until everything is fully combined and smooth with no lumps. Slightly warm milk helps the powdered sugar dissolve better, resulting in a silky finish.

How thick should I spread the frosting?

Spread the frosting in a generous but even layer to cover the entire cake surface. It should be thick enough to complement the richness without overwhelming the delicate marshmallow topping underneath.

Final Thoughts

This Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves chocolate desserts packed with flavor and texture. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a classic crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more. So go ahead, whip up this easy yet indulgent cake, and treat yourself and your friends to a slice of chocolate heaven.