Quick & Decadent Mississippi Mud Cake with Gooey Marshmallow Creme

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey with this truly irresistible Mississippi Mud Cake! This decadent Southern dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, combining rich, dense chocolate cake with layers of gooey marshmallow fluff and a luscious, intense chocolate frosting. Each bite promises pure bliss, an enchanting symphony of textures and flavors that will captivate your senses. Forget ordinary desserts; this is a showstopper perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy your deepest chocolate cravings.

Often hailed as a delightful dessert cousin to classics like Rocky Road Ice Cream, Mississippi Mud Cake stands proud as a quintessential Southern treat. Its comforting richness makes it a perfect companion to hearty meals like Mississippi Pot Roast, refreshing Creamy Cucumber Salad, or vibrant Chili Lime Corn on the Cob. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort and indulgence, baked into every glorious slice.

A generous serving of Mississippi Mud Cake on a pristine white plate, showcasing its dense chocolate layers, fluffy marshmallow, and rich frosting.

Table of Contents

Why This Mississippi Mud Cake Is Awesome!

Mississippi Mud Cake isn’t just another chocolate dessert; it’s a truly exceptional creation that brings together the best of chocolate cake and fudgy pie. Its unique combination of rich flavors and varied textures makes it a standout choice for any gathering, from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations. Here’s why this recipe deserves a special place in your kitchen:

  • Unparalleled Richness and Fudgy Perfection: This isn’t your average fluffy cake. Our Mississippi mud cake boasts an incredibly rich chocolate flavor with a dense, fudgy crumb that melts in your mouth. The intense cocoa notes are perfectly balanced, providing a deep, satisfying chocolate experience that true connoisseurs will adore. It’s like eating a brownie, a cake, and fudge all at once!
  • Decadent Frosting with a Delightful Crunch: The chocolate frosting for this mud cake is more than just a topping; it’s an integral layer of indulgence. Infused with sweet, rich cocoa, it’s further elevated by the delightful inclusion of crunchy, buttery pecans. This creates a wonderful contrast to the smooth cake, adding a textural dimension that makes every bite exciting and memorable.
  • Surprisingly Simple to Master, Highly Customizable: Despite its impressive appearance and complex flavors, this dreamy, creamy mud cake is remarkably easy to make. We’ve simplified the process without compromising on taste, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve spectacular results. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs, making it a truly adaptable recipe.
  • The Ultimate Over-the-Top Chocolate Indulgence: If you’re looking for a dessert that’s shamelessly extravagant and utterly delectable, this is it. It’s more than perfect for any occasion, promising to be the star of the dessert table. The combination of dense chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and rich frosting creates an experience that is truly over-the-top in the best possible way, leaving everyone wanting more.
A collection of fresh ingredients for Mississippi Mud Cake laid out neatly on a kitchen counter, ready for baking.

Ingredients For Your Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe

Achieving an exceptional, fudgy chocolate mud cake begins with the right ingredients and a crucial baking tip: always use ingredients at room temperature (unless explicitly stated otherwise in the recipe). This ensures even mixing and consistent baking, preventing an undercooked center and overcooked edges, which can be common pitfalls in dense cakes.

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive printable recipe card located at the conclusion of this article.

Chocolate Mud Cake: Essential Components

  • Unsalted Butter: Butter is paramount in a Mississippi mud cake, contributing significantly to its rich flavor profile and creating a firmer, more desirable crumb texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the total sodium content of your cake, ensuring a perfectly balanced taste. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for optimal creaming.
  • Granulated Sugar: This essential ingredient provides sweetness, contributes to the cake’s tender texture, and helps with moisture retention. It also caramelizes during baking, adding subtle depth to the flavor.
  • Large Eggs (Room Temperature): Eggs serve multiple vital functions in baking: they act as a powerful binder, holding the cake structure together, and provide essential moisture. It’s crucial for eggs to be at room temperature before creaming them with sugar, as cold eggs can cause the mixture to curdle and prevent proper emulsification.
  • Vanilla Extract: For the most authentic and robust flavor, always opt for real vanilla extract. Its aromatic notes enhance the chocolate and marshmallow layers, adding a layer of complexity. You can even elevate your baking game by learning how to make your own vanilla extract; the difference in taste is truly rewarding!
  • All-Purpose Flour (187.5 G): Flour provides the structural foundation for the cake. If you don’t own a kitchen scale (which is highly recommended for accurate baking), remember the “fluff, spoon, and level” method: gently fluff the flour in its container, spoon it into your measuring cup, and then level off the excess with a straight edge. Never scoop directly, as this compacts the flour and leads to over-measurement.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The heart of the chocolate flavor! Typically, Dutched (alkalized) cocoa powder is preferred in recipes that use baking powder as the primary leavening agent. The alkalizing process neutralizes the natural acidity of cocoa powder, resulting in a less bitter, darker colored chocolate, and helps to bring forward a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
  • Baking Powder: This chemical leavener is responsible for the cake’s lift and tenderness. Always ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired powder can lead to a dense, flat cake. (See our helpful tip below on how to test for freshness!)
  • Salt: A small but mighty ingredient, salt enhances all the other flavors in the cake, particularly the chocolate. It balances the sweetness and brings out a more profound taste profile.
  • Pecans (Chopped): Whether raw or lightly toasted, chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. Toasting them briefly in a dry pan or oven enhances their aroma and flavor.
  • Coconut (Shredded): Sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut introduces a wonderful chewiness and tropical hint to the mud cake. Its texture and subtle flavor provide a lovely contrast to the dense chocolate.
  • Marshmallow Cream (Large Jar): This gooey, sweet layer is a signature component of Mississippi Mud Cake. Brands like Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme or Marshmallow Fluff are widely available at most local grocery stores, ensuring you can easily create that iconic marshmallow layer.

PRO TIP: Test Your Baking Powder for Freshness! Don’t let old baking powder ruin your cake. To quickly check if it’s still active, simply pour a small amount of baking powder into a cup of hot water. If it fizzes vigorously, it’s still good to use and will provide the necessary lift for your cake! If not, it’s time to replace it.

The Ultimate Mississippi Mud Cake Frosting:

  • Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This finely milled sugar is essential for creating a smooth, velvety frosting without any graininess. It dissolves easily and contributes to the frosting’s creamy texture.
  • Softened Butter: Similar to the cake batter, softened butter is crucial for a light, fluffy frosting. It provides richness and helps to create a stable emulsion when combined with other ingredients.
  • Evaporated Milk: This concentrated milk adds a creamy consistency and a slightly cooked, caramelized note to the frosting, deepening its flavor profile compared to regular milk.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For that deep, intense chocolate flavor in the frosting, unsweetened cocoa powder is key. It ensures the frosting is rich and not overly sweet, balancing the powdered sugar.
  • Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract in the frosting enhances the chocolate flavor, adding warmth and complexity, much like it does in the cake itself.
  • Chopped Pecans: These are folded into the frosting to provide a delightful textural contrast and an extra layer of nutty flavor, making the frosting even more special.
Step 1: Beating butter and sugar in a mixing bowl for Mississippi Mud Cake.
Step 2: Adding eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture.
Step 3: Combining dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder in a separate bowl.
Step 4: Gently mixing wet and dry ingredients together to form the mud cake batter.
Step 5: Pouring the rich chocolate mud cake batter into a prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Spreading a layer of gooey marshmallow creme over the warm, freshly baked chocolate mud cake.

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Directions For Crafting Your Mississippi Mud Cake

Creating this magnificent Mississippi Mud Cake is a delightful process. Before you begin, gather your essential tools: a 9×13-inch baking dish (generously greased with baking spray or butter and flour), a couple of sturdy mixing bowls, an electric mixer (stand or hand-held), and a reliable spatula. Prepare for the ultimate test of willpower as you resist the temptation to sample the glorious chocolate mud cake batter!

For optimal results, ensure you follow the complete, detailed recipe at the bottom of this page.

  1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take your 9×13-inch baking dish and thoroughly grease it with baking spray or butter, then dust lightly with flour. This critical step ensures your dense mud cake releases easily after baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using your electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air, which contributes to the cake’s tender crumb. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
  3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the room-temperature eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Follow with the vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. The mixture should be smooth and emulsified.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed before adding them to the wet mixture.
  5. Gently Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, mixing on low speed with your electric mixer (or by hand with a spatula) just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in a tough cake.
  6. Bake the Cake: Pour the luscious chocolate mud cake batter evenly into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. The cake is done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, and the center gently springs back when lightly touched. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cake.
  7. Apply Marshmallow Layer: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, while it’s still warm, spoon generous dollops of marshmallow creme evenly over the entire surface. The residual heat from the cake will help the marshmallow creme soften. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes spreadable, then gently spread it across the warm cake in an even layer. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature before proceeding to the frosting stage; this step is crucial for the marshmallow layer to set.
Step 7: Applying marshmallow creme to the warm Mississippi Mud Cake, allowing it to soften before spreading.
Step 8: Spreading the marshmallow creme evenly over the warm cake after it has softened, creating a smooth, gooey layer.
Step 9: Mixing butter and powdered sugar for the Mississippi Mud Cake frosting until light and fluffy.

Mississippi Mud Cake Frosting Directions: Adding the Final Touch

  1. Prepare the Frosting Base: In a clean mixing bowl, using your electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light, airy, and fluffy. This process typically takes 2-3 minutes, creating the perfect foundation for your rich chocolate frosting.
  2. Add Liquid and Flavorings: Gradually add the evaporated milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat on medium speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the frosting is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a tiny bit more evaporated milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  3. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate frosting. These nuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth frosting.
  4. Frost the Cooled Cake: Once the cake (with its marshmallow layer) has completely cooled, spread the prepared Mississippi Mud Cake frosting evenly over the marshmallow fluff layer. Use an offset spatula to create a smooth, appealing finish.
  5. Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and easier slicing, place the frosted cake in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This brief chill time allows the frosting to firm up slightly and enhances the overall structure of the cake layers.

DID YOU KNOW? The Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients! Unless a recipe specifically notes otherwise, key baking ingredients such as eggs, milk, and butter should always be at room temperature before being incorporated into a batter or dough. Recipes are typically developed assuming these ingredients are at a consistent temperature for optimal chemical reactions and even baking. Using room temperature ingredients ensures that they emulsify properly, create a smooth batter, and cook uniformly, resulting in a perfectly baked treat like this Mississippi Mud Cake. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle, become lumpy, or prevent proper gluten development, leading to an inconsistent texture.

Step 10: Adding evaporated milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract to the frosting mixture.
Step 11: Mixing the chocolate frosting until it's smooth, creamy, and evenly colored.
Step 12: Folding in chopped pecans into the finished chocolate frosting mixture.
Step 13: Spreading the rich chocolate frosting over the marshmallow layer of the cooled Mississippi Mud Cake.
A freshly baked Mississippi Mud Cake in a white baking dish, garnished with forks and a cake server, ready to be enjoyed.

Recipe Notes & Expert Baking Tips

To ensure your Mississippi Mud Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these valuable tips and notes in mind:

  • Precision in Measuring Dry Ingredients: When it comes to baking, especially for dense and tender cakes, accuracy is key. Using a kitchen scale to measure flour and powdered sugar by weight (grams) can dramatically improve the consistency and outcome of your baked goods compared to volume measurements, which can be inconsistent.
  • Butter vs. Vegetable Oil for Texture: You have a choice between using butter and vegetable oil in your cake recipe, and this decision impacts both flavor and texture. Butter imparts a rich, creamy flavor that is unmistakable and contributes to a more structured, slightly denser crumb. Vegetable oil, on the other hand, is neutral in taste and typically yields a moister, softer crumb that stays fresh longer. For this specific Mississippi Mud Cake, butter is recommended for its flavor depth, but oil can be a good substitute if you prefer a very moist cake.
  • Marshmallow Options: If you find yourself without marshmallow creme, mini marshmallows are an excellent alternative. Simply scatter them over the hot chocolate mud cake right after it comes out of the oven. As they soften from the residual heat, you can gently spread them for a gooey layer. For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, you can briefly place the mud cake under a preheated broiler (watch carefully!) until the marshmallow peaks lightly caramelize to a beautiful golden yellow.
  • Understanding Marshmallow Varieties: It’s worth noting that Marshmallow Fluff tends to be quite a bit thicker and more viscous than Kraft’s Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme. Fluff typically offers a firmer, more stable marshmallow layer, and can often be a bit more economical per ounce. While both will work, the consistency difference might slightly alter the mouthfeel of the marshmallow layer.
  • Preventing Dryness: After frosting, it’s essential to cover your Mississippi Mud Cake with plastic wrap if you plan to chill it or store it for any period. This prevents the cake from drying out and keeps the frosting from forming a crust, ensuring every slice remains moist and delicious.
  • Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely after baking before adding the marshmallow and then again before frosting. Rushing this step can lead to melted marshmallow and runny frosting, compromising the beautiful layers of your mud cake. Patience here will be rewarded!
  • Cutting Tips: For neat slices, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped clean between each cut. This prevents sticking and ensures clean edges, especially with the gooey marshmallow layer.
A large rectangular Mississippi Mud Cake, with several slices already removed, sitting in a white baking dish.

How To Properly Store Your Mississippi Mud Cake

Proper storage is key to extending the deliciousness of your Mississippi Mud Cake and ensuring every slice tastes as fresh as the first. This dense, chocolatey delight holds up remarkably well, allowing you to enjoy it for days after baking.

At room temperature, a well-covered mud cake will maintain its quality for up to five days. To prevent it from drying out, always keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. For those who wish for an even longer shelf life, the cake can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated, where it will stay fresh for an extended period.

A Quick Note on Longevity: While some sources suggest Mississippi Mud Cake can last a week to ten days on the counter, or even up to three weeks in the fridge when wrapped impeccably, such claims have rarely been put to the test in my household. For obvious reasons, this utterly delicious cake tends to disappear long before its theoretical expiration date!

Freezing Your Mud Cake for Future Indulgence

Mississippi Mud Cake is an excellent candidate for freezing, making it perfect for meal prepping desserts or simply saving leftovers for a rainy day. This ensures you always have a decadent treat on hand without compromising on flavor or texture.

If you have a smaller household, or just want to enjoy this cake in manageable portions, we highly recommend portioning leftover cake into individual or double servings. Each portion should be wrapped tightly first in plastic wrap, then followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer protection is crucial to prevent freezer burn, which can affect taste and texture. Once wrapped, place these portions into a freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container for maximum protection. When properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn, your Mississippi Mud Cake can last beautifully in the freezer for over three months.

To enjoy a frozen slice, simply thaw it for several hours in the refrigerator or overnight. For a slightly quicker thaw, you can leave it at room temperature for an hour or two, though refrigeration is generally recommended for optimal texture. Enjoying a perfectly thawed, rich slice of mud cake months later is a true pleasure!

A close-up of a serving of Mississippi Mud Cake on a white plate, with a fork gently dug into the rich, layered dessert.

Mississippi Mud Cake: Your Questions Answered

What is the difference between marshmallow fluff and marshmallow creme?

While Marshmallow Fluff and Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme might seem interchangeable, discerning connoisseurs often note a few key distinctions. For most casual bakers creating a Mississippi Mud Cake, either will provide that delightful gooey marshmallow layer and satisfying flavor. However, the differences can be significant for those seeking specific textures.

Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme contains additional ingredients like xanthan gum and water, which are included to stabilize and moisten the product. This typically results in a slightly thinner, runnier consistency. The presence of added water makes its texture “less-than” in a direct side-by-side comparison with Fluff.

Marshmallow Fluff, on the other hand, is typically free of added water or gums, which contributes to its notably thicker and more viscous texture. This makes Fluff a bit more robust and capable of holding its shape better. Historically, Fluff also had an advantage due to its use of vanillin, though sadly, ingredient lists for both products now often feature “artificial flavor.” Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prefer a slightly runnier, softer marshmallow layer or a thicker, more substantial one.

How did Mississippi mud cake get its name?

The intriguing name “Mississippi Mud Pie” (and by extension, Mississippi Mud Cake) originates from its visual resemblance to the rich, dark mud found along the banks of the Mississippi River. When this thick chocolate dessert, especially an original pie recipe, emerges from the oven, its appearance can mimic the parched, crusted, and sometimes cracked clay of the riverbed. The top layer of the cake or pie often develops a crunchy or textured surface, providing a wonderful contrast to the moist, chewy interior. This visual analogy to the iconic river’s muddy banks is a charming nod to its Southern roots and distinct character. [Reference: MississippiEncyclopedia.org]

Can I make Mississippi Mud Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mississippi Mud Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake the cake layer, apply the marshmallow, and even frost it a day or two in advance. Store the completed cake, well-covered, in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the cake a more settled, satisfying texture. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature for about an hour before serving for the best taste and consistency.

What kind of chocolate is best for this cake?

For the deep, rich chocolate flavor characteristic of Mississippi Mud Cake, unsweetened cocoa powder is essential. We recommend using Dutched (alkalized) cocoa powder in this recipe, as it provides a darker color and a milder, less bitter chocolate taste, which pairs wonderfully with baking powder as a leavener. Avoid using natural cocoa powder unless the recipe specifically calls for it, as it reacts differently with baking powder due to its acidity.

A delectable serving of Mississippi Mud Cake on a white plate, surrounded by scattered pecans, highlighting its rich chocolate and nutty elements.

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions for Your Mud Cake

One of the beautiful aspects of a mud cake is its incredible adaptability! It takes true talent to “mess up” this indulgent dessert, as it’s primarily about infusing your desired flavors and flair into the moist cake, gooey marshmallow layer, and rich chocolate frosting. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!

  • Fruity Twists: If you ever stumble upon a unique flavor like Strawberry Fluff, that would be an incredibly tasty way to put a delightful spin on your Mississippi Mud Cake. Serve it alongside some fresh, thinly sliced strawberries for a burst of contrasting fruitiness – simply de-lish! Other fruit options like raspberries or cherries (fresh or in a compote) could also add a bright note.
  • Elevated Toppings and Garnishes: Enhance the visual appeal and add extra texture to your Mississippi Mud Cake. Top it with small, elegant swirls of marshmallow creme, a generous sprinkle of perfectly toasted coconut flakes, classic chocolate sprinkles, or a medley of white and chocolate chips. For a truly decadent finish, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup could also be added.
  • Nutty Alternatives: If you’re a fan of Almond Joy candy bars, you’ll absolutely love adapting this chocolate mud cake by using almonds instead of pecans. Their distinct flavor profile complements the chocolate beautifully. For an even richer taste, consider lightly toasting the almonds before incorporating them into the cake batter or sprinkling them over the icing. Walnuts or hazelnuts are also excellent alternatives.
  • Marshmallow Versatility: Mini marshmallows can be used effectively in place of marshmallow creme. You can either scatter them over the hot cake and let them melt into a smooth layer, or leave them slightly lumpy on top for a delightful textured look. For a toasted marshmallow flavor, a quick run under the broiler will do the trick (watch carefully!).
  • Time-Saving Shortcuts: Short on time but craving this decadent treat? Don’t fret! You can certainly use a good quality boxed cake mix as your base. We recommend choosing deeper chocolate cake flavors like Devil’s Food or dark chocolate fudge mixes to maintain the rich profile. Remember to still add the coconut and nuts if desired, and as with any cake batter, avoid overmixing.
  • Quick Frosting Hacks: Another fantastic time-saver, or if you don’t have all the ingredients for the traditional Mississippi Mud Cake frosting, is to create a quick chocolate ganache. Simply sprinkle chocolate chips over the marshmallow creme while it’s still warm. Let the chips sit for a few minutes until they become shiny and melty, then gently swirl them into the white marshmallow cream with an offset spatula to create beautiful, enticing patterns.
  • Dietary Customizations (Excluding Ingredients): If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to leave it out entirely; the cake will still be incredibly delicious. Similarly, if pecans or other nuts aren’t to your taste or if you have allergies, you absolutely don’t have to include either ingredient to enjoy the dreamy chocolate layers of a Mississippi mud cake.
  • Milk Substitutions for Frosting: Don’t have evaporated milk on hand for the frosting? No problem! You can substitute with whole milk. Start with about 5 tablespoons and gradually add more, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve the desired creamy consistency for your frosting. Heavy cream can also work for an even richer result.
  • Coffee Enhancement: For an even deeper chocolate flavor, consider adding 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder or strong brewed coffee to the cake batter. Coffee is known to intensify chocolate without adding a distinct coffee flavor.
  • Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected and delightful warmth to the chocolate cake, creating a Mexican Hot Chocolate inspired mud cake.
    A close-up shot of a single serving of Mississippi Mud Cake, showing the rich chocolate cake, gooey marshmallow, and thick frosting layers, with marshmallow creme oozing delicately.

    Like This Recipe? Share Your Thoughts!

    We’d absolutely love to hear about your experience making this decadent Mississippi Mud Cake! Your feedback inspires us and helps other bakers. Please leave a review below and let us know how much you enjoyed the recipe!

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    A beautiful serving of Mississippi Mud Cake on a white plate, showcasing its rich layers and tempting texture.

    Mississippi Mud Cake

    Yield:
    12 servings
    Prep Time:
    10 minutes
    Cook Time:
    35 minutes
    Chill Time:
    10 minutes
    Total Time:
    55 minutes

    Indulge in this irresistible Mississippi Mud Cake! Decadent layers of dense chocolate mud cake, gooey marshmallow fluff, and intense chocolate frosting come together for pure dessert bliss. Perfect for any chocolate lover!

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or vegetable oil – see notes for texture differences)
    • 2 cups granulated sugar
    • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 1 ½ cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
    • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutched recommended)
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder (ensure freshness)
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup pecans, chopped (raw or lightly toasted)
    • 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
    • 1 jar (12 ounce) marshmallow creme (Jet-Puffed or Fluff)

    For the Rich Chocolate Frosting

    • 1 pound (approximately 3 ½ cups) powdered sugar
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
    • ½ cup evaporated milk
    • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • ½ cup chopped pecans

    Instructions

    1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350° F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly with baking spray or butter and flour. Set aside.
    2. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the room-temperature eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract until just combined.
    3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut with a spoon until evenly distributed.
    4. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
    5. Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the center of the cake springs back when gently touched and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
    6. Add Marshmallow Layer: As soon as the cake is out of the oven, spoon marshmallow creme over the warm cake. Let it soften for a few minutes, then gently spread it evenly over the entire surface. Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature.
    7. Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the evaporated milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
    8. Frost & Chill: Spread the chocolate pecan frosting evenly over the cooled marshmallow layer of the cake. For easier slicing and a firmer set, allow the frosted cake to chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving.

    Notes

    • For best results and even baking, use all room-temperature ingredients unless otherwise specified.
    • We highly recommend using a kitchen scale to accurately measure flour and powdered sugar by weight for consistent results.
    • Swapping the butter for vegetable oil can result in a cake with a slightly more moist crumb, though butter offers a richer flavor.
    • If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to omit it from the recipe. The cake will still be delicious.
    • No evaporated milk for the frosting? You can use whole milk – start with 5 tablespoons and add more as needed, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
    • Instead of marshmallow creme, you can use a bag of mini marshmallows. Scatter them over the hot cake and let them melt, then spread. For a toasted effect, briefly broil them.
    • Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
    Nutrition Information:

    Yield: 12
    Serving Size: 1

    Amount Per Serving (Estimated):
    Calories: 479
    Total Fat: 22g
    Saturated Fat: 11g
    Trans Fat: 1g
    Unsaturated Fat: 10g
    Cholesterol: 76mg
    Sodium: 232mg
    Carbohydrates: 68g
    Fiber: 2g
    Sugar: 55g
    Protein: 4g

    Nutrition information is estimated based on the ingredients and cooking instructions as described in each recipe and is intended to be used for informational purposes only. Please note that nutrition details may vary based on methods of preparation, origin, and freshness of ingredients used and are just estimates. We encourage, especially if these numbers are important to you, to calculate these on your own for most accurate results.

    Did you make this recipe?

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    © Cheryl Sousan

    Cuisine: American

    /
    Category: Cake Recipes

    A collage of Mississippi Mud Cake photos, including a close-up and a full cake, for Pinterest sharing.

    A photo collage showcasing various aspects of the Mississippi Mud Cake, including a generous slice and the full cake, perfect for sharing on social media platforms like Pinterest.
    Cheryl Sousan's signature as the author of the blog post.