Mississippi Mud Bars

Mississippi Mud Bars are a decadent dessert that layers rich, fudgy chocolate with gooey marshmallows and a luscious chocolate glaze, all atop a buttery cookie crust. Inspired by the classic Mississippi Mud Cake, these bars are a delightful treat for chocolate lovers, combining textures and flavors that melt in your mouth with every bite. The contrast between the chewy crust, the soft marshmallow layer, and the smooth, shiny chocolate topping creates an indulgent experience that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, Mississippi Mud Bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Topping:

• 3 cups mini marshmallows

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Add the Marshmallows: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are just beginning to puff up. Remove from the oven and set aside.
5. Make the Chocolate Glaze: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk, and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and shiny.
6. Glaze the Bars: Pour the warm chocolate glaze over the marshmallow layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the marshmallows completely.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the Mississippi Mud Bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For easier slicing, you can refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes to set the glaze.

These Mississippi Mud Bars are a rich and indulgent dessert that combines all the best elements of chocolate and marshmallow into one delicious bite, perfect for any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.