Recipe

Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe

Written by Daou Nourdine

 

Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe: A Gooey Southern Delight

Mississippi Mud Cake is the ultimate dessert for serious chocolate lovers. This iconic Southern dessert is rich, gooey, and layered with melted mini marshmallows and a thick, fudgy icing that sets into a glossy, chocolatey topping. It’s a nostalgic favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a weeknight indulgence, this cake delivers pure chocolate bliss in every bite.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides the structure and body of the cake.
  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows – Melt into the batter during baking, creating a soft, gooey texture.
  • 16 oz confectioners’ sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a silky, smooth icing.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk – Balances the richness and helps dissolve the sugar for the icing.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Adds moisture, richness, and flavor to both the cake and icing.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – The key ingredient for deep chocolate flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds warmth to the icing.
  • Chocolate cake batter – Use your favorite homemade or boxed mix to keep it simple and delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. In a bowl, combine the flour and mini marshmallows.
  3. Prepare your favorite chocolate cake batter (homemade or boxed).
  4. Fold the flour and marshmallow mixture into the chocolate batter gently.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.

2. Bake the Cake

  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding icing.

3. Make the Icing

  1. In a saucepan, combine the confectioners’ sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder.
  2. Stir over medium heat until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Assemble the Cake

  1. Pour the warm icing over the cooled cake, spreading evenly.
  2. Let it set for at least 30 minutes to allow the icing to firm up.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice into squares and serve on a plate or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This cake is a showstopper not just for its appearance, but for its rich, moist texture and layers of flavor. The melted marshmallows create surprise pockets of sweetness, while the icing adds a smooth, chocolatey glaze. It’s an easy, one-pan dessert that travels well and satisfies every sweet tooth.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mississippi Mud Cake

  • Use fresh mini marshmallows – they melt better and give the best gooey texture.
  • Let the cake cool completely before icing to avoid a runny topping.
  • If using a boxed cake mix, add a spoonful of sour cream for extra moisture.
  • Don’t skip the vanilla extract in the icing – it rounds out the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
  • Top with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
  • Drizzle with a little chocolate syrup and add whipped cream for a sundae-style dessert.
  • Cut into mini squares for a party tray or dessert buffet.

Conclusion

Rich, gooey, and indulgent – Mississippi Mud Cake is the kind of dessert that disappears fast and earns compliments every time. Its simple ingredients, easy prep, and luscious results make it a must-have in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re sharing it with family or saving it all for yourself, this cake is bound to become a beloved favorite. Try it today and experience why this Southern classic stands the test of time.

 

About the author

Daou Nourdine