Print

Grandma’s Mississippi Mud Cake: Easy Classic Recipe

A rich, dense, and fudgy chocolate sheet cake inspired by classic Southern flavors, featuring a decadent cocoa frosting and optional pecans and marshmallows for the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (divided)
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (divided)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (divided)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of butter. Stir in 1/2 cup cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gradually stir in the cooled chocolate mixture.
  4. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in nuts if using.
  5. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let the cake cool on a wire rack.
  6. To make the frosting: Melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan. Stir in 1/4 cup cocoa powder and milk; bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth. Fold in marshmallows if using.
  8. Pour the frosting over the cooled cake, spread evenly, and let set before slicing.

Notes

  • Ensure the melted chocolate mixture is cooled before adding to the eggs to prevent scrambling.
  • For a more authentic 'Mud' texture, add the marshmallows on top of the warm cake for 2 minutes in the oven before frosting.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Grandma’s Mississippi Mud Cake, Chocolate Sheet Cake, Southern Desserts, Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe