Oh my goodness, y’all—this Mississippi Mud Cake is pure old-fashioned Southern comfort at its finest! With its fudgy chocolate base, gooey marshmallow layer, and rich cocoa icing, it’s no wonder this recipe has been passed down through generations. Let’s give Grandma the standing ovation she deserves for sharing this iconic dessert with us!
Why This Cake Will Steal Your Heart
✅ Triple chocolate bliss – Cake + marshmallows + icing = heaven
✅ Perfect texture combo – Fudgy, chewy, and creamy all at once
✅ Crowd-pleasing classic – Always the first dessert to disappear
✅ Nostalgic flavors – Tastes like childhood memories
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder (use Dutch-process for extra richness)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toast them for maximum flavor!)
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
For the Icing:
- 16 oz (4 cups) powdered sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (Grandma says butter it well!).
2. Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy (~3 mins).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Gradually mix in flour and cocoa powder until just combined.
- Stir in vanilla and pecans.
3. Bake to Fudgy Perfection
- Pour batter into prepared dish and spread evenly.
- Bake 25 minutes (toothpick should come out clean).
4. Marshmallow Magic
- Immediately after baking, cover the hot cake with marshmallows.
- Let sit 2-3 minutes to soften, then gently spread into an even layer.
5. Whip Up the Icing
- In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and butter.
- Gradually add milk until smooth and pourable.
6. The Grand Finale
- Once cake has cooled slightly (but marshmallows are still warm), pour icing over top.
- Let set 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
🍴 Serve slightly warm – The marshmallows will be extra gooey!
🍦 Pair with vanilla ice cream – The cold/hot contrast is divine.
☕ Enjoy with coffee or milk – For the ultimate comfort combo.
FAQs (Grandma-Approved Tips!)
1. Can I use large marshmallows?
✅ Yes, but mini marshmallows melt more evenly.
2. How to store leftovers?
- Room temp: 2 days (covered)
- Fridge: Up to 5 days (let come to room temp before serving)
3. Can I make it nut-free?
✅ Simply omit pecans—it’ll still be delicious!
4. Why is it called “Mississippi Mud Cake”?
Legend says it resembles the dark, muddy banks of the Mississippi River—but we call it chocolate paradise!
5. Can I freeze it?
✅ Yes! Freeze without icing, then add fresh icing after thawing.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbs | 68g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 17g |
Grandma’s Pro Secrets
✨ Toast those pecans – Brings out their nutty flavor
✨ Don’t overbake – The cake should be fudgy, not dry
✨ Spread marshmallows quickly – They melt FAST on hot cake
Final Thoughts
Grandma, you’ve outdone yourself with this legendary Mississippi Mud Cake! Every bite is a warm hug of chocolatey, marshmallowy goodness that takes us right back to your kitchen. Thank you for sharing this treasured family recipe—it’s absolutely perfect in every way.
Who else grew up eating this classic dessert? Share your memories below! 👇💕
With love and full bellies,
[Your Name] 💖
P.S. Grandma, can we get your peach cobbler recipe next? 😉
