Mississippi Mud Cake: My Grandma’s Southern Chocolate Masterpiece
If there’s one dessert that captures love, comfort, and Southern charm in every decadent bite, it’s this Mississippi Mud Cake. A rich chocolate base topped with gooey marshmallows and warm cocoa icing—it’s the kind of old-school treat that brings everyone to the table (and back for seconds).
Passed down from my Grandma, this cake isn’t just a recipe—it’s a legacy. Every time I bake it, it fills the kitchen with the smell of her hugs, her stories, and her sweet tooth. And today, I’m sharing it to make her day just a little brighter. 🥰
Why I Love This Recipe
This cake is pure Southern nostalgia. The base is rich and buttery, the marshmallow layer melts into pillowy goodness, and the icing… oh, the icing! It soaks right into the warm cake for that signature “muddy” texture.
Why it’s a forever favorite:
- Incredibly moist and fudgy
- Sweet without being cloying
- Easy to make in one pan
- Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or cheering up someone special
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
For the Icing:
- 16 oz confectioners’ sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
Directions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
Gradually mix in the flour and cocoa powder until smooth.
Stir in vanilla and fold in the pecans.
3. Bake
Pour batter into the greased dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Add the Marshmallows
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle mini marshmallows over the hot cake. Let them soften for a few minutes, then use a spatula to gently spread them into a fluffy, even layer.
5. Make the Icing
In a separate bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and softened butter. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
6. Finish the Cake
Pour the warm icing over the marshmallow layer and spread it evenly. Let the cake cool completely to set. Then slice, serve, and enjoy the love.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality cocoa for deep chocolate flavor.
- Let marshmallows melt slightly before spreading—don’t rush.
- If your icing thickens too fast, warm it gently before pouring.
- Want a cleaner slice? Chill slightly before cutting and wipe the knife between cuts.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cake is rich enough to stand alone—but pairing it can make it even more unforgettable:
- Serve with vanilla bean ice cream or fresh whipped cream.
- Pair it with a creamy starter like this Baked Brie Appetizer for the ultimate comfort spread.
- Love over-the-top desserts? These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs are next-level chocolate bliss.
- Add a nostalgic companion: Try these Old School No-Bake Cookies—just like Grandma made.
- Want a peanut butter twist? These Peanut Butter Brownies balance rich cocoa beautifully.
Storage & Leftovers
- Room temperature: Store covered for 2–3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Got a sweet tooth or a love for retro-style desserts? Check these out next:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
- Old School No-Bake Cookies
- The Best Peanut Butter Brownies
- Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups
- Baked Brie Appetizer
Final Thoughts
This Mississippi Mud Cake is more than chocolate and marshmallows—it’s a story, a memory, and a piece of Grandma’s heart. Every bite is rich with nostalgia, wrapped in love, and impossible not to crave.
Let’s show Grandma some love—drop your compliments below and let her know this recipe is still making people smile across generations. ❤️🍫
And if you bake it, tag @ChefManiac and share a photo—we’d love to see your version of this Southern classic.
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