Mississippi Mud Cake

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Sink your fork into the indulgent layers of Mississippi Mud Cake—a dessert that brings pure joy with every bite. This rich and gooey delight combines moist chocolate cake, creamy vanilla frosting, melted chocolate drizzle, and generous chunks of chocolate chips. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors: dense fudgy cake, smooth cream, and crunchy chocolate bits. A perfect showstopper for celebrations or cozy weekend treats.

Mississippi Mud Cake is all about comfort and decadence. Inspired by the dark and swirling currents of the Mississippi River, this dessert is beautifully messy—in the best way possible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something special for a late-night snack, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. One bite and you’re wrapped in warmth, nostalgia, and a whole lot of chocolate love.

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Ingredients for this Mississippi Mud Cake

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows or marshmallow creme
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• Chocolate ganache or hot fudge sauce, for drizzle
• Cocoa powder, for dusting

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Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth. Stir in the sugar, then beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated and glossy.

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Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and fold in the chopped nuts if using. The batter will be thick and fudgy—just what we want for that signature dense texture.

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Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). Do not overbake—it should be rich and moist.

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Step 4: Add Marshmallow Layer

While the cake is still hot, immediately spread mini marshmallows or marshmallow creme over the top. Let them melt slightly into the warm cake. You can use a spatula to smooth them out gently.

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Step 5: Chocolate Topping

Once the marshmallow layer is set, sprinkle the top with semi-sweet and white chocolate chips. Press them lightly into the marshmallow. Drizzle with warm ganache or hot fudge sauce for that luscious muddy effect.

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Step 6: Final Touches

Dust with cocoa powder for a finishing touch. Let the cake cool completely before slicing. If you prefer it chilled, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for cleaner cuts and an extra fudge-like experience.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Mississippi Mud Cake tasting fresh and decadent, store it properly:

• Room Temperature: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature.
• Refrigerator: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake. It will last up to 5–6 days. Allow slices to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to enjoy the soft, gooey texture.
• Freezer: You can freeze Mississippi Mud Cake for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temp before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 12 servings)

• Calories: ~420
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 110mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 52g
• Sugars: 38g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and toppings used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Mississippi Mud Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

2. Can I skip the nuts?

Absolutely. The nuts are optional and can be left out or replaced with more chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

3. What’s the best way to cut this cake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry for smooth, clean cuts.

4. Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes! Marshmallow fluff spreads beautifully and gives the same gooey layer.

5. Can I use a box cake mix instead of making it from scratch?

Definitely. A chocolate or devil’s food box mix works well if you’re short on time.

6. Do I need to refrigerate the cake?

Not required, but recommended if you want it to last more than 2 days. Chilling also helps firm up the layers.

7. How do I make it extra fudgy?

Underbake the cake slightly by 2–3 minutes and let it cool fully. This locks in moisture for a dense, fudgy texture.

8. Is this the same as a brownie cake?

Not quite! While it’s similar in richness, Mississippi Mud Cake includes marshmallows and extra toppings that set it apart.

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