If you’ve ever dreamed of a rich, fudgy, and satisfyingly gooey chocolate dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe is the answer to your cravings. Bursting with layers of chocolate, marshmallow, and a decadent cocoa frosting, this cake brings a perfect balance of moist texture and indulgent flavors that are impossible to resist. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a day that calls for a sweet treat, this classic Southern delight will quickly become your go-to dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a mouthwatering masterpiece. Each plays a key role, whether it’s the cocoa powder that gives that deep chocolate flavor or the marshmallow crème that adds luscious gooeyness and texture.
- 4 eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
- 2 cups white sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 cup butter (melted, 2 sticks): Adds moisture and luscious flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall taste with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 cup flour: The foundation for the cake’s structure; spoon and level for accuracy.
- 1/2 + 1/3 cup cocoa powder: Delivers that unforgettable chocolate intensity.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavors.
- 1 cup flaked coconut (optional): Adds a slight chewiness and tropical hint.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Brings a delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- 1 (7-oz) jar marshmallow crème: The secret to the gooey, irresistible middle layer.
- 1/2 cup butter (melted, 1 stick): For the silky, rich frosting that tops the cake.
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder: Adds chocolate punch to the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the cocoa with smooth warmth in the frosting.
- 6-8 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the frosting to the perfect spreading consistency.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Elevates and balances the frosting’s sweetness.
How to Make Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepping the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan generously with butter—this not only prevents sticking but also adds a subtle buttery hint to the edges of your cake, ensuring it bakes evenly and comes out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Beating the Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl or your stand mixer, beat the 4 eggs until they turn thick and frothy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into your batter, giving the cake lightness. Then, gradually beat in the 2 cups of white sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Mixing Butter and Dry Ingredients
While your eggs and sugar are mixing, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter in another medium bowl. To this melted butter, whisk in the flour, cocoa powder (using both 1/2 and 1/3 cup portions for full impact), and kosher salt. If you’re adding the optional pecans and coconut, stir them in now to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Combining Batter Components
Carefully add the butter-flour mixture into the egg mixture. Beat everything together on medium speed until the batter is well combined and silky. This combination is the heart of your Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe, with its rich chocolate goodness and perfect texture already forming.
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, ensuring your cake is perfectly baked without drying out.
Step 6: Preparing the Levee Frosting
As the cake bakes, clean your mixing bowl and melt the remaining 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter. Beat in 1/2 cup cocoa powder for a strong chocolate flavor in the frosting. Then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups powdered sugar, and the salt, beating until smooth. Incorporate about 3 to 4 tablespoons of milk gradually, then add the remaining powdered sugar, and beat again. Adjust milk as needed to reach a rich, spreadable frosting consistency.
Step 7: Adding the Marshmallow and Frosting Layers
Once your cake is out of the oven, quickly spread the jar of marshmallow crème evenly over the warm surface. Immediately follow by spreading the nive frosting on top, swirling it with a spatula or knife to create a beautiful marbled effect. This layering step is the signature finish that makes this Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe so wonderfully decadent.
Step 8: Cooling and Serving
You can enjoy this cake warm for a gooey, melted experience but be warned—it’s delightfully messy! Allowing it to cool to room temperature will let the frosting and marshmallow set, making slices easier to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mississippi Mud Cake, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted pecans on top for extra crunch and visual appeal. A few chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel can also add a lovely finishing touch that complements the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance its richness. A dollop of whipped cream offers a light finish, while coffee or a robust black tea perfectly cuts through the decadent chocolate layers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the cake in individual ramekins with a marshmallow top torched to golden perfection. Alternatively, layering pieces in parfait glasses with whipped cream and nuts creates a stunning dessert display that feels special and sophisticated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mississippi Mud Cake keeps beautifully at room temperature, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to three days. The flavors meld together nicely, making every slice as enjoyable as the first.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, the cake maintains its flavor for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy this cake warm after storing, microwave slices for 15 to 20 seconds until just heated through. The marshmallow and frosting soften delightfully, bringing back that freshly baked gooey charm.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without the nuts and coconut?
Absolutely! The pecans and coconut are optional and can be left out for a simpler version. The cake will still be deliciously moist, chocolaty, and rich without them, perfect for those with allergies or preferences.
What is marshmallow crème, and can I substitute it?
Marshmallow crème is a sweet, spreadable frosting made from marshmallows that’s commonly used in baking. If you can’t find it, you might substitute with homemade marshmallow fluff or a softened marshmallow spread, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Is this cake very sweet?
This Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe strikes a balanced sweetness, combining rich cocoa with marshmallow and powdered sugar frosting. It’s indulgent but not overly sugary, appealing to those who love a satisfying chocolate dessert without it being cloying.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the best results and keep it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How long does it take to make this cake from start to finish?
From prepping to cooling, this cake takes about 35 to 40 minutes active time plus cooling. It’s a quick and rewarding bake, so you can enjoy it even on busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Getting cozy with a slice of this Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe feels like being wrapped in comfort and joy. It’s one of those desserts you’ll happily bake again and again, loved for its rich chocolate layers, gooey marshmallow charm, and easy preparation. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to indulge in some seriously happy baking moments. You deserve it!
Print
Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Mississippi Mud Cake is a rich, chocolatey dessert featuring a moist cocoa-infused cake base layered with gooey marshmallow crème and finished with a luscious chocolate cocoa frosting. The combination of melted butter, cocoa, and optional coconut and pecans creates a moist and flavorful cake perfect for any chocolate lover. Serve it warm for a melty, indulgent treat or allow it to set for easier slicing.
Ingredients
Cake
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup butter, melted (2 sticks)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup flaked coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Frosting
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow crème
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6–8 tablespoons milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking.
- Beat eggs and sugar: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat 4 eggs until thick and fluffy. Gradually beat in 2 cups of white sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Melt butter and combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, melt 1 cup of butter. To this, whisk in 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), 1/2 cup plus 1/3 cup cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. If using, stir in the flaked coconut and chopped pecans now.
- Mix batter: Add the butter-flour mixture into the egg mixture and beat well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a smooth batter.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared 9×13 inch pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Prepare frosting: While the cake is baking, clean your mixing bowl. Melt 1/2 cup butter and beat in 1/2 cup cocoa powder. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and beat well until smooth.
- Adjust frosting consistency: Add about 3-4 tablespoons of milk, then the remaining 2 cups powdered sugar. Beat well and add more milk as needed to achieve a spreadable yet thick frosting consistency.
- Top cake with marshmallow crème: When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the entire jar (7 ounces) of marshmallow creme evenly over the hot cake surface.
- Frost the cake: Spread the prepared chocolate frosting over the marshmallow layer. Use a spatula or a knife to swirl the frosting decoratively over the top.
- Serve: The cake can be served warm for a gooey, messy delight or allowed to cool and set at room temperature for neat slicing. Enjoy!
Notes
- Optional ingredients like flaked coconut and chopped pecans add texture and flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- Spreading marshmallow crème on the hot cake allows it to melt slightly, creating a gooey top layer.
- Serving warm results in a messier cake but a wonderfully gooey experience; letting it cool makes slicing easier.
- Make sure to use kosher salt for best flavor, but you can substitute with regular salt if needed, adjusting measurement.
