Irresistible Mississippi Mud Brownies Recipe
If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a decadent, rich dessert that feels like a warm hug, these Mississippi Mud Brownies are about to become your new obsession. Packed with gooey, fudgy layers and topped with a luscious marshmallow and nut topping, this recipe perfectly balances intense chocolate flavor with a satisfying texture contrast that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving an indulgent treat, these brownies bring classic comfort and irresistible charm to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate fudginess: The combination of melted chocolate and cocoa powder creates an incredibly rich, moist brownie base.
- Layered texture: Soft brownies topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy nuts add delightful complexity.
- Simple ingredients: Made with easy-to-find pantry staples that come together quickly and effortlessly.
- Perfect for chocolate lovers: Intense cocoa flavor satisfies every chocolate craving without being overly sweet.
- Great for sharing: The classic homemade flavor makes these brownies perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mississippi Mud Brownies recipe keeps things straightforward, using essential ingredients that each bring unique qualities to the final dessert. From the deep cocoa to the crunchy nuts, every component plays an important role in creating that signature gooey, rich flavor.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that deep, intense chocolate flavor that forms the base.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Melted into the batter to add ooey-gooey richness and a smooth texture.
- Butter: Adds moisture and richness for tender brownies.
- Sugar: Balances the chocolate’s bitterness and keeps the brownies sweet but not overpowering.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the fudgy consistency.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the brownies cakey.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate notes with a warm aroma.
- Mini marshmallows: Create a soft, pillowy topping that melts into perfection while baking.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: Add crunch and a nutty flavor contrast to the sweet layers.
Variations for Mississippi Mud Brownies
One of the best things about Mississippi Mud Brownies is how adaptable they are. Feel free to customize the recipe to match dietary needs, ingredient availability, or flavor preferences—the recipe welcomes creativity.
- Nut-free option: Simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for crunchy texture.
- Salted caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
- White chocolate mix-in: Swap half the semisweet chips for white chocolate for a delightful twist.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour without affecting the fudginess.
- Espresso boost: Stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to amp up the chocolate flavor with a subtle coffee hint.
How to Make Mississippi Mud Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the batter
Begin by melting butter and semisweet chocolate chips together until smooth and glossy, either in a microwave or double boiler. Once melted, whisk in sugar and eggs until fully combined, ensuring a smooth, thick consistency. Stir in vanilla extract for an aromatic boost.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined—overmixing can toughen the brownies so aim for a rich, fudgy batter.
Step 3: Bake the brownies
Pour the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft. This helps maintain the signature gooey texture.
Step 4: Add marshmallow topping
Once the brownies have baked and slightly cooled, scatter mini marshmallows evenly over the surface. Return the pan to the oven for 2-3 minutes or broil briefly until the marshmallows puff up and turn golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning!
Step 5: Garnish with nuts
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the toasted marshmallows for that final satisfying crunch. Let the brownies cool completely for easier slicing.
Pro Tips for Making Mississippi Mud Brownies
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better your chocolate, the richer and smoother your brownies will taste.
- Don’t overbake: Remove the brownies while the center is still a bit soft to retain that fudgy texture everyone loves.
- Cool completely before slicing: This step ensures clean cuts without crumbling or sticking.
- Toast nuts before topping: Lightly toasting pecans or walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Use fresh marshmallows: Fresh mini marshmallows melt more evenly and give that perfect gooey topping.
How to Serve Mississippi Mud Brownies
Garnishes
These brownies shine on their own, but for an extra touch, try dusting with powdered sugar, drizzling melted chocolate, or adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top.
Side Dishes
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add cool creaminess that balances the richness. Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce can provide a sweet-tart contrast that pairs beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Mississippi Mud Brownies into bite-sized squares for party platters, stack them as mini brownie towers with layers of marshmallow fluff in between, or serve warm with a cozy mug of coffee or hot chocolate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Mississippi Mud Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them moist and fresh. For longer storage, refrigeration is fine but may slightly harden the marshmallow topping.
Freezing
Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying; you can warm them slightly in the microwave for that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that gooey texture—avoid overheating to keep marshmallows from toughening.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate will intensify the chocolate richness but may be slightly less sweet, so consider adjusting the sugar slightly if you prefer a sweeter brownie.
What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
You can chop regular-sized marshmallows into small pieces or use marshmallow fluff spread evenly on top before broiling for a similar effect.
How can I make these brownies more cakey?
To achieve a cakier texture, increase the flour slightly and add an extra egg to the batter; however, the classic Mississippi Mud Brownies are best enjoyed fudgy.
Are Mississippi Mud Brownies gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses wheat flour, but you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make a delicious gluten-free version.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking pan, adjusting baking time as needed. Keep an eye on the brownies as baking time may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
Ready to dive into a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious? These Mississippi Mud Brownies combine all the best parts of a classic brownie with a gooey marshmallow topping and crunchy nuts for a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re baking for friends or a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy every chocolate craving. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
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Mississippi Mud Brownies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour blend)
Description
Mississippi Mud Brownies are a rich, fudgy chocolate dessert featuring a moist brownie base made from melted chocolate and cocoa powder, topped with gooey mini marshmallows and crunchy chopped nuts. This decadent treat balances intense chocolate flavor with delightful texture contrasts, perfect for chocolate lovers and great for sharing at any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: Melt the butter and semisweet chocolate chips together until smooth and glossy, using a microwave or double boiler. Whisk in the sugar and eggs until fully combined into a smooth, thick mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the aroma.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, spreading evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until edges are set but the center remains slightly soft for that gooey texture.
- Add marshmallow topping: After the brownies have cooled slightly, evenly scatter mini marshmallows over the surface. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes or broil briefly until marshmallows puff and turn golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish with nuts: Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the toasted marshmallows. Allow the brownies to cool completely for easier slicing and to set the toppings.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for richer, smoother brownies.
- Remove brownies from oven while the center is still a bit soft to maintain fudginess.
- Cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts without crumbling.
- Toast nuts lightly before topping to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Use fresh mini marshmallows for an even melt and perfect gooey topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Mississippi Mud Brownies, fudgy brownies, marshmallow brownies, chocolate dessert, nut topping, homemade brownies