Mississippi Mud Cake Bars

If you’re craving a decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than these Mississippi Mud Cake Bars. Rich, chocolatey, and irresistibly delicious, these bars are reminiscent of the classic Southern dessert.

With layers of fudgy chocolate cake, gooey marshmallow, and a luscious chocolate glaze, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or indulgent treat for yourself. Get ready to indulge in a slice of Southern comfort with these delightful Mississippi Mud Cake Bars.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. 9×13 inch baking pan
2. Mixing bowls
3. Electric mixer or whisk
4. Spatula
5. Saucepan
6. Wire rack (for cooling)

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Marshmallow Layer:

• 4 cups (about 8 oz or 225g) miniature marshmallows

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a saucepan, melt the 1 cup of butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
   • Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, stirring until smooth.
   • Stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Remove the cake from the oven and immediately sprinkle the marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the cake to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are slightly melted and puffed.
4. Make the Chocolate Glaze:
   • In a saucepan, combine the milk, 1/4 cup of butter, and 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
   • Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the warm chocolate glaze over the marshmallow layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
   • Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once cooled, cut the Mississippi Mud Cake Bars into squares and serve. Enjoy these indulgent treats with a glass of milk or cup of coffee!

Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and marshmallow with these delightful Mississippi Mud Cake Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!