Mississippi Mud Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a creamy marshmallow topping, look no further than these Mississippi Mud Pie Bars! This indulgent treat is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. With a base made from chocolate chip cookie dough and layers of creamy goodness, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a fantastic choice for a last-minute dessert craving!

Why I Love This Recipe

Mississippi Mud Pie Bars hold a special place in my heart for their incredible layers of flavor and texture. The combination of a chewy chocolate chip cookie crust, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy marshmallow cream creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers the classic taste of Mississippi mud pie in a convenient bar format. They are perfect for sharing, or if you’re feeling indulgent, keep them all to yourself!

Ingredient List

To make these delightful Mississippi Mud Pie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• One 16.25-ounce tube refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough, very well softened to room temp
• Three tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder
• One 3.9-ounce package instant chocolate pudding mix
• One cup 2% or whole milk (must use cow’s milk; alternative milks will not allow the pudding to set up)
• Four ounces cream cheese, very well softened to room temp
• One 7-ounce container marshmallow creme or marshmallow fluff
• One 8-ounce container Cool Whip (I recommend using full-fat)
• Thirty-two Oreo Cookies, coarsely chopped; divided
• Half a cup hot fudge, warmed

Must-Have Equipment

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• 9×13-inch baking pan – Ideal for baking and serving your bars.
• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer – To easily whip the cream cheese and marshmallow fluff.
• Spatula – For spreading and smoothing the layers.
• Parchment paper – Helpful for easy removal of the bars from the pan.

Mississippi Mud Pie Bars: From Prep to Plate

Creating these Mississippi Mud Pie Bars is a fun and rewarding process! Follow these steps for a delicious outcome.

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Press the softened chocolate chip cookie dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely while you prepare the next layers.

Step 2: Mix the Chocolate Pudding

In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cow’s milk. Make sure to use cow’s milk, as alternative milks will not allow the pudding to set properly. Whisk until smooth and set aside for about 5 minutes to thicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the marshmallow creme or fluff, mixing until well combined. Fold in the Cool Whip gently until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Once the cookie crust has cooled, spread the chocolate pudding layer evenly over the crust. Next, spoon the cream cheese and marshmallow layer on top of the pudding, smoothing it out with a spatula. Sprinkle half of the chopped Oreo cookies over the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Drizzle the warmed hot fudge over the top, and then sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreo cookies. Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the bars to set properly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once set, remove the bars from the refrigerator and lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve chilled. These Mississippi Mud Pie Bars are best enjoyed cold, so keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to dig in!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

These Mississippi Mud Pie Bars are incredibly versatile. Here are a few spins you can try based on the season or occasion:

• Summer: Serve with fresh berries on the side for a refreshing contrast.
• Fall: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese layer for a warm spice flavor.
• Winter: Top with crushed peppermint candy canes for a festive touch.
• Spring: Incorporate a layer of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for a bright twist.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even experienced bakers can run into a few common pitfalls when making Mississippi Mud Pie Bars. Here are some tips to avoid those mistakes:

• Not allowing the cookie dough to soften enough can lead to uneven baking. Make sure it’s at room temperature.
• Using non-dairy milk for the pudding can prevent it from setting properly. Stick to cow’s milk for the best results.
• Rushing the chilling time can cause the layers to not set well, resulting in a messy slice. Patience is key!
• Overmixing the cream cheese and marshmallow can lead to a dense texture instead of a light and fluffy layer.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Mississippi Mud Pie Bars fresh and delicious:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• These bars are best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat them. If you prefer them slightly warm, allow them to sit out for a few minutes before serving.
• Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of cookie dough for the base?

Absolutely! While chocolate chip cookie dough is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors like peanut butter or sugar cookie dough for a unique twist.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Mississippi Mud Pie Bars, simply use a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I substitute for Cool Whip?

If you prefer not to use Cool Whip, you can whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese and marshmallow mixture for a homemade version.

Can I add nuts to the bars?

Definitely! Chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can be added to the cookie dough base or sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.

More from the Kitchen

If you’re hungry for more delicious recipes, check out these favorites:

• Fudgy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches – A delightful blend of brownies and ice cream!
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars – An easy-to-make treat that combines cookie dough and chocolate.
• Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake – A creamy cheesecake with a chocolate-covered twist!

Hungry for More?

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of slicing into a pan of Mississippi Mud Pie Bars. With their rich layers of chocolate, creamy textures, and a hint of nostalgia, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or keeping them all to yourself, these bars are the perfect way to indulge in a sweet treat. So grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and let the chocolatey goodness begin!