Quick Description
This Mississippi Mud Cake is a decadent dessert filled with layers of rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy walnuts, topped off with a smooth chocolate frosting. It’s a perfect treat for chocolate lovers and a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion. The layers of flavor and texture come together to make it an irresistible indulgence.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12–16 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
For the Frosting
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and water.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined into a smooth batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (the cake will be slightly fudgy).
Step 4: Add the Marshmallows (Optional)
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the marshmallows are puffed and golden.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, make the frosting:
In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and melted butter.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Pour the frosting over the cooled cake and spread it evenly.
Top with the chopped walnuts, pressing them gently into the frosting.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Serve and enjoy the gooey, rich goodness of Mississippi Mud Cake!
Additional Notes
- Marshmallow Variation: If you don’t like marshmallows, you can skip this step, and the cake will still be delicious!
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts or use a different nut like pecans, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.
- Richness: For a more decadent treat, increase the cocoa powder to ¼ cup for a richer chocolate flavor.
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian
- High in Sugar: This cake is indulgent and sweet — perfect for a special occasion.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra gooeyness.
- Caramel Version: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake before serving for a salted caramel twist.
- Berry Topping: Serve with fresh berries on top for added freshness and color.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes! Just chop the regular marshmallows into smaller pieces before adding them to the cake.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake holds up well in the fridge and can be made a day in advance. Just frost and top it just before serving.
Q: How can I make the frosting thicker?
If the frosting is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
