Okay, friends, let’s talk about something seriously decadent. Forget the diet for a day (or maybe two!). We’re diving headfirst into Mississippi mud pie. I remember the first time I had this. My Aunt Carol brought a mammoth pie to remeber, and it was just as delicious. *screamed* chocolate. If a brownie and fudge had babies, this would be it. But better. Is it hard to make chocolate lava cakes? This Mississippi mud pie is pure comfort food, pure chocolate bliss, and it’s shockingly easy to make.
What is Mississippi Mud Pie?
What exactly is this magical creation? Think of it as a super-rich chocolate pie with an ooey, fudgy center and an delightfully crumbly crust. What’s essentially layers of chocolate goodness, starting with a cookie-like base, followed by an incredibly thick layer of melted chocolate. Chocolate filling, and often topped with marshmallows or a chocolate glaze. The name mud pie comes from its resemblance to the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. Is this a rustic dessert? I love it. There is nothing subtle about it, and that’s why I like it so much. This isn’t your grandma’s delicate custard pie; it’ll be bold, unapologetic, and absolutely delicious.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is the best Mississippi mud pie recipe?flavorIs this world out of the world? What is dark chocolate? It’s just the right amount. It’s deliciously chocolatey without being bitter – a real crowd-pleaser.simpleDon’t let the decadent appearance fool you. How do I make a pie with ingredients I already have in my pantry? I promise, even if you’re a novice baker, you can nail this one. Third, it’s incredibly amazingly easy to make.cost-efficient. No fancy ingredients or expensive equipment required. Is it a good way to impress your friends and family?versatileServe warm with ice cream, top it with strawberries, or even add a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra special touch. What are some extra oomph
What I love about this particular recipe is how easy it is to customize. Can you add nuts, chocolate chips, or even peanut butter to the filling? I’ve even experimented with adding cayenne pepper for a little kick! What makes this recipe so good for home bakers? I think you’ll find that you prefer it over any other chocolate dessert recipe because it’s a home made recipe. What is the best way to run a kitchen?
How do you make Mississippi Mud Pie?
Quick Overview
How do you make Mississippi mud pie? How do I make a cookie-like crust, then whip up chocolate filling? If you like a glaze, bake it until it’s set but still gooey in the middle, and then top it with your favorite glaze. What’s the best part about a stand mixer? What makes this pie so good? I promise, it’s easier than making cookies.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
* 1 12 cups all-purpose flour – I like to use unbleached for a slightly nuttier flavor. * 12 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Go for a good quality one! What makes a difference in flavor? * 12 teaspoon baking soda – This gives the crust a little lift and keeps it from being too dense. * 12 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor. * 34 cup (1 12 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s *really* soft, but not melted. * 34 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and to help the crust crisp up. * 14 cup packed light brown sugar – Adds a touch of molasses flavor and keeps the crust moist. * 1 large egg – Binds everything together. * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the other flavors.
For the Filling:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter – Again, good quality butter is key. * 2 cups granulated sugar – For that perfect level of sweetness. * 34 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – The star of the show! * ½ teaspoon salt – To balance the sweetness. * 1 cup evaporated milk – This gives the filling a smooth, creamy texture. Don’t substitute for regular milk! * 4 large eggs – Lightly beaten. * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor. * 1 cup chocolate chips – I like semi-sweet, but you can use dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preference. What is your preference?
For the Glaze (optional):
* 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped – You can also use dark chocolate for a richer glaze. * 14 cup (12 stick) unsalted butter – Adds shine and richness to the glaze. * 2 tablespoons milk – Helps to thin out the glaze. * 1 cup powdered sugar – Sift it to avoid lumps!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch pie plate. I sometimes line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal, especially if I’m serving it directly from the plate. Trust me, you don’t want any sticking issues!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Why is whisking important? How do I get rid of baking soda?
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. Is it possible to make this happen with an electric mixer? If you’re doing it by hand, be prepared for a workout! The mixture should be pale and creamy.
Step 4: Add Egg & Vanilla
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated. The batter should be smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. How do you avoid over mixing a crust? The dough will be thick and slightly crumbly.
Step 6: Press into Pan
Press the dough into the prepared pie plate, covering the bottom and up the sides. How do you use the back of a spoon? I sometimes use a piece of plastic wrap to prevent the dough from sticking to my fingers.
Step 7: Bake Crust
I baked the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the filling. This is crucial! If you add filling to a hot crust, it will seep underneath and make the crust soggy.
Step 8: Make the Filling
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Stir in the milk, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth. I’ve burned sugar before, so be careful not to overheat it.
Step 9: Add Evaporated Milk
Remove from heat and gradually stir in the evaporated milk until smooth. Return to medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 10: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Remove from heat and gradually whisk in the beaten eggs until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and chocolate chips. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. Do chocolate chips melt?
Step 11: Pour into Crust
Do not over-fill the crust with chocolate. Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Now is a good time to preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) again.
Step 12: Bake the Pie
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until filling is set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center. The center will continue to set as it cools. Let the pie cool completely before adding the glaze.
Step 13: Make the Glaze (Optional)
In a heatproof bowl, set over simmering water (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals) put the bowl over the water. What is the best way to melt chocolate and butter together? Remove from heat and stir in the milk and powdered sugar until smooth. What is the best glaze to serve with a cooled pie? If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can top the pie with marshmallows and broil them until golden brown. Is it okay to dust it with powdered sugar?
Step 14: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. How do you set the fillings? Serve chilled or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
What should I serve it with?
Mississippi mud pie is delicious on its own, but with the right accompaniments.
For Brunch:A slice of this mud pie pairs perfectly with a glass of iced coffee. Place it on a pretty plate and add whipped cream and berries for an elegant look.
As Dessert: After a hearty dinner, a slice of Mississippi mud pie is the perfect indulgence. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.
For Cozy Nights: Curl up on the couch with a slice of warm mud pie and a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of milk. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day. I even sometimes sneak a small piece with my tea at night. Don’t tell anyone!
My family tradition is to always have a slice of this pie after Thanksgiving dinner (along with the traditional pumpkin pie, of course!). It’s a fun way to change it up. I promise you, it’ll be a hit!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Mississippi Mud Pie
Want to take your Mississippi mud pie to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years.
Cocoa powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor. I prefer Dutch-processed cocoa powder, as it has a smoother, less bitter taste. If you only have natural cocoa powder, that’s fine too, just be sure to use the amount specified in the recipe.
Salt Balance: Don’t skip the salt! It balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor. A pinch of sea salt on top of the finished pie is a game-changer.
Evaporated Milk: Use evaporated milk, not condensed milk! They’re not interchangeable. Evaporated milk adds a creamy richness to the filling without making it too sweet.
Doneness Test: The filling should be set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center. It will continue to set as it cools, so don’t overbake it!
Ingredient Swaps: You can experiment with different types of chocolate in the filling and glaze. Dark chocolate will give you a richer, more intense flavor, while milk chocolate will be sweeter. I’ve even used white chocolate chips in the filling before (don’t tell the purists!).
Vanilla Power: Don’t skimp on the vanilla extract. It enhances all the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth. I always use pure vanilla extract, not imitation vanilla. It’s worth the investment!
I used to make this pie every year for my dad’s birthday. He loved it so much that he would eat the entire thing in one sitting! (Okay, maybe not the *entire* thing, but close!). I now bake it for my own kids, and I hope it will become a family tradition in their homes one day as well.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to make this Mississippi mud pie ahead of time? Here’s how to store it and reheat it for maximum deliciousness.
Room Temperature: You can store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. After 2 days, it’s best to refrigerate it.
Refrigerator Storage: The pie will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the pie, it’s best to wait to add the glaze until after it’s thawed. This will prevent the glaze from cracking or becoming sticky.
I always make sure to let my pie come to room temperature before serving, as this allows the flavors to fully develop. A slice of chilled Mississippi mud pie is delicious too though!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Mississippi mud pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of home, a slice of comfort, and a celebration of chocolate. It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations, each baker adding their own little twist. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress, this is it. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. And hey, if you are looking for another great chocolate recipe, might I suggest my Double Chocolate Brownies? You will love them!
So, go ahead and give it a try! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. And if you have any tips or tricks of your own, be sure to share them in the comments below. Happy baking!
Mississippi mud pie
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups Chocolate Wafer Crumbs
- 0.33 cup Granulated Sugar
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
Filling
- 4 ounces Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons Cocoa Powder
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Topping
- 7 ounces Marshmallow Creme
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine chocolate wafer crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
- In a saucepan, melt chocolate and heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, cream butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the butter mixture, beating until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust. Spread marshmallow creme over the filling.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the marshmallow topping is lightly browned.
- Let cool completely before serving.
