Mississippi Mud Cake is a rich, indulgent chocolate cake topped with gooey marshmallows and a luscious chocolate frosting. This classic Southern dessert gets its name from the resemblance of its dark, fudgy layers to the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, this cake is perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent and Chocolatey – This cake is loaded with deep chocolate flavor, making it a dream for chocoholics.
Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake comes together effortlessly.
Perfect for Gatherings – Its rich, moist texture and gooey topping make it a crowd-pleaser at parties and celebrations.
Classic Southern Dessert – A nostalgic and beloved recipe that brings a taste of the South to your table.
Great for Make-Ahead – This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Chopped pecans (optional)
Mini marshmallows
Milk
Powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Batter – In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined. Fold in pecans if using.
Bake the Cake – Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Add Marshmallows – Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the cake to the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the marshmallows soften.
Prepare the Frosting – In a saucepan, combine butter, milk, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
Frost the Cake – Pour the warm frosting over the marshmallow layer, spreading gently to cover.
Cool and Serve – Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12–16 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Option – Omit the pecans if you prefer a nut-free cake.
Extra Chocolatey – Stir in chocolate chips to the batter for an even richer flavor.
Caramel Drizzle – Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for an added layer of sweetness.
Coffee Infusion – Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate depth.
Different Nuts – Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften the marshmallow and frosting.

FAQs

How do I prevent my cake from becoming dry?

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark.

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

Yes, you can use a chocolate cake mix as a shortcut, but the homemade version provides a richer flavor.

What kind of cocoa powder works best?

Unsweetened cocoa powder works best for a deep, chocolatey taste. You can use either natural or Dutch-processed cocoa.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature and add the frosting just before serving.

Why are my marshmallows melting too much?

If the marshmallows completely disappear into the cake, they were left in the oven too long. Just a couple of minutes is enough to soften them.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes, but cut them into smaller pieces so they distribute evenly over the cake.

What can I serve with Mississippi Mud Cake?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the richness of the cake perfectly.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Absolutely. Simply omit the pecans for a nut-free version without altering the texture.

How can I make the frosting thicker?

Reduce the milk slightly or add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Is this cake similar to brownies?

Yes, it has a fudgy texture similar to brownies but is slightly lighter and topped with marshmallows and frosting.

Conclusion

Mississippi Mud Cake is a timeless Southern dessert that delivers a perfect balance of rich chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and smooth frosting. Whether you are making it for a family gathering, holiday party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy it fresh or the next day for an even more delicious treat!