Mississippi Mud Cake Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Combining rich, fudgy brownies with a gooey marshmallow topping and decadent chocolate frosting, these brownies are a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup melted butter (or 1 stick of butter and 1 stick of margarine): Provides the base for these rich and chewy brownies. Using both butter and margarine can enhance the texture.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the brownies and balances the bitterness of the cocoa.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa: Adds deep chocolate flavor to the brownies.
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of vanilla.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the brownies.
- 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans, toasted: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) bag miniature marshmallows: Creates a gooey, melty layer on top of the brownies.
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 (16-ounce) package powdered sugar, sifted: Provides sweetness and a smooth texture to the frosting.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps to achieve the desired consistency for the frosting.
- 1/4 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and helps to smooth out the frosting.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa: Intensifies the chocolate flavor of the frosting.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter (or a mix of butter and margarine) with the sugar. Stir in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the cocoa, salt, and flour. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Incorporate Nuts: Fold in the coarsely chopped pecans. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Add Marshmallows: While the brownies are still hot, sprinkle the miniature marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are soft and slightly golden.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting
- Cream Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa to the butter, alternating with the milk. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time. If too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
3. Frost and Serve
- Cool Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This helps the frosting to set better and prevents it from melting into the brownies.
- Frost the Brownies: Once cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the marshmallow layer.
- Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, gooey combination of chocolate and marshmallows!
Tips for Perfect Mississippi Mud Cake Brownies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking ingredients, especially the baking powder and baking soda, are fresh for the best texture.
- Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking the brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool completely before adding the frosting to ensure it spreads smoothly and doesn’t melt into the brownies.
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans for a nut-free version of this treat.
- Additional Toppings: Experiment with other toppings such as crushed nuts, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
Mississippi Mud Cake Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. With their rich, fudgy texture, gooey marshmallow layer, and decadent chocolate frosting, these brownies are sure to be a hit at any event. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just a sweet treat for yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying and delicious dessert that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy!
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