Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe

If ever there were a dessert that commands attention and invites outright celebration, it’s Mississippi Mud Pie. This legendary bake layers up a symphony of rich chocolate, marshmallow fluff, and more chocolate, all perched atop a homemade chocolate crust. Each slice is gooey, decadent, and overflowing with nostalgia—the kind of treat that begs for messy forks and second helpings. From family gatherings to whenever-your-chocolate-soul-needs-comfort, Mississippi Mud Pie delivers pure, indulgent satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Mississippi Mud Pie is delightfully straightforward, but every single one is essential for creating that layered, luxurious flavor and irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful tips to bring out the very best in your pie.

• Bitter sweet chocolate (4 ounces): Use good-quality baking chocolate or chips for a deep, velvety base flavor.
• Butter (1/2 cup + 3/4 cup + 3 tablespoons): Both the filling and the crust rely on real butter, giving luscious texture and rich taste throughout.
• Pure cane granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just enough to balance all that chocolatey intensity.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup + 1 cup): Lends structure to the pie filling and makes the chocolate crust sturdy, but still tender. You can swap for 1-to-1 gluten-free flour if you prefer.
• Large eggs (2): Eggs bind the filling and give it that almost-fudgy, chewy texture that’s so dreamy.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (2 tablespoons + 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons): Used in multiple layers, cocoa deepens the chocolate flavor and gives that signature dark color.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon): Adds aromatic warmth, rounding out the chocolate and marshmallow sweetness.
• Marshmallow creme/fluff (7-ounce jar): This is the gooey magic that makes the middle of Mississippi Mud Pie unforgettable.
• Pure cane powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Perfect for sweetening and smoothing the chocolatey topping layer.
• Milk (1 tablespoon): Loosens the chocolate topping, making it spreadable and silky.
• Sugar (1/4 cup): This sweetens the chocolate crust just the right amount without overpowering it.
• Cold water (1/4 cup): Brings the pie crust dough together for a perfectly tender shell.
• Extra flour for dusting: Helps when rolling out the crust, preventing sticking while keeping the dough light.

How to Make Mississippi Mud Pie

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Pie Crust

Start by prepping your crust, which is the foundation of everything. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar until evenly mixed. Cut in the butter using a fork until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with a few pea-sized pieces left—this is the secret to a flaky crust. Pour in all the cold water at once and mix just until a soft dough forms. Quickly roll out the dough on a floured surface, then gently fit it into your pie dish. Set aside while you whip up that luscious filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

Preheat your oven to 350 F. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the chocolate chips and butter just until barely melted, stirring often so nothing scorches. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, flour, and the first two tablespoons of cocoa powder. Next, whisk in the eggs until everything is glossy and smooth, and finally, add the vanilla. Pour this thick, shiny filling into your prepared crust.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

Bake your pie for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a filling that’s set around the edges but still just a touch wobbly in the center. Don’t worry if it looks a bit underdone; it will finish setting as it cools. Let the pie cool for 15 to 20 minutes while you get ready for the marshmallow magic.

Step 4: Layer on the Marshmallow Creme

While the pie is still warm (but not too hot to handle), stir the marshmallow fluff in its jar so it’s easier to scoop out. Carefully spoon the marshmallow creme over the warm chocolate layer. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to melt slightly, then use a spatula to gently spread it right to the edges. The heat from the pie will make it glossy, sticky, and perfectly gooey.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate Topping

For that ultimate mud pie finish, make the final chocolate layer. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together the powdered sugar, remaining cocoa powder, milk, butter, and vanilla. Heat until the mixture steams and is smooth—just don’t let it boil. Carefully spoon this over the marshmallow layer. It’s completely normal if some of the marshmallow peeks through or bubbles up; that’s the swampy, “mud pie” looks we’re after! Let the pie cool, then finish with a flurry of chocolate shavings or sprinkles around the edges. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the very best experience.

How to Serve Mississippi Mud Pie

Garnishes

This is your moment to have some fun and make the Mississippi Mud Pie totally your own! Classic chocolate shavings give a beautiful, bakery-style edge, but you can also use mini marshmallows, toasted walnuts, or even rainbow sprinkles for a playful look. Powdered sugar dusted lightly over the top creates a touch of snowy contrast against all that chocolate.

Side Dishes

Mississippi Mud Pie’s richness can handle a little contrast—think big scoops of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of lightly whipped cream, or even fresh raspberries on the side. A hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk will also set off the chocolate flavors beautifully, making every forkful even more irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not think outside the classic pie slice? Try baking mini Mississippi Mud Pie tarts for adorable party servings, or cut squares instead of wedges for a fun, bar-style presentation. Serve with playful dessert forks, colorful plates, or drizzle with chocolate sauce for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap the remaining pie tightly with plastic wrap or cover with foil, and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, and the layers stay beautifully distinct and fudgy.

Freezing

To freeze Mississippi Mud Pie, let it cool completely first. Wrap individual slices (or the whole pie) in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and store flat in the freezer for up to one month. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

Want that gooey, just-baked effect? Warm up individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or place them in a low oven (300 F) for about 5 minutes. Be gentle though; you want to take the chill off without melting the marshmallow layer too much.

FAQs

What is the origin of Mississippi Mud Pie?

Mississippi Mud Pie likely got its name from the rich, dark, and swirled chocolate layers that resemble the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. It’s a classic Southern dessert that’s been beloved for generations, especially for chocolate lovers!

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, in a pinch, you can use a ready-made chocolate pie crust, but the homemade version here is truly worth the extra step. It adds depth and a tender texture that makes the whole dessert shine.

How do I make this gluten-free?

To make your Mississippi Mud Pie gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a high-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and filling. Check all other ingredients for hidden gluten, too.

Can I make Mississippi Mud Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie is actually even better the second day, as the flavors meld and the layers firm up. Prepare the pie as directed, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Why is my marshmallow creme hard to spread?

For easy spreading, make sure the pie is still slightly warm and give the marshmallow creme a good stir in its jar before spooning it on. If it gets sticky, briefly warming your spatula under hot water can help, too.

Final Thoughts

Mississippi Mud Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a full-on chocolate experience that brings everyone running to the table. Give this recipe a try and don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature showstopper for years to come!

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