Mississippi Mud Cake

Directions

Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray or parchment.
2. In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the sugar and eggs on high for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, combine hot water, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and salt. With mixer on low, gradually add to sugar mixture.
4. Slowly mix in flour, baking soda, and baking powder until incorporated.
5. Add oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract; scrape down sides and bottom of the bowl. Do not overmix.
6. Evenly pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and cool completely or refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Kahlua Whipped Cream:

1. Chill a clean mixing bowl with whisk attachment in the fridge for 15 minutes.
2. Add cold cream and whip on high until soft peaks form.
3. Reduce speed to low and gradually add confectioners’ sugar, Irish Cream, Kahlua, and cornstarch.
4. Increase speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form. Chill until ready to assemble.

Ganache:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 15-second intervals, whisking after each, until smooth and glossy (about 45 seconds total).
2. Chill ganache in fridge for 15 minutes before using.

Assembly:

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of Kahlua whipped cream on top.
2. Repeat with remaining cake layers and whipped cream, chilling briefly between layers if needed.
3. Pour cooled ganache over the top and smooth with an offset spatula.
4. Sprinkle chopped Oreos over the ganache for garnish.
5. Chill cake until ready to serve.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes (excluding chilling and assembly)
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

• • Alcohol-Free: Replace Kahlua and Baileys with vanilla extract or extra coffee for flavor.
• • Nutty Twist: Add chopped toasted pecans between cake layers for crunch.
• • Flavor Boost: Sprinkle espresso powder over the whipped cream for extra coffee depth.
• • Chocolate Variation: Use milk chocolate ganache for a sweeter, creamier finish.

Serving Suggestions