Brownie Mud Hen Bars

Why This Recipe Works

This bar mixes a rich brownie batter with soft marshmallows and chocolate chips. The marshmallows give a gooey top and the chips add extra chocolate bites. Baking the batter in two layers keeps the marshmallows from sinking and gives a nice texture contrast.

Brownie Mud Hen Bars are easy and fun to make. The recipe uses simple ingredients you may already have. If you like brownies with a creamier or different twist, try similar ideas like these brownie bottom mini cheesecakes for more inspiration.

Why you should try this recipe

Try this if you want a dessert that is quick to mix and tastes like a chocolate treat with a soft, sticky top. Kids and adults like the marshmallow layer. It is great for parties, potlucks, or a simple family dessert.

How to make Brownie Mud Hen Bars

You make a classic brownie batter and bake it in a 9×13 pan with a marshmallow and chocolate chip layer in the middle. The trick is to pour half the batter, add the marshmallows and chips, then cover with the rest of the batter so the marshmallows stay soft on top. For another rich layered option, you might enjoy a caramel brownie cheesecake recipe.

Ingredients :

1 cup unsalted butter, 2 cups granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 cups mini marshmallows, 1 cup chocolate chips

Equipments Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Add a layer of mini marshmallows over the brownie batter, then sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the marshmallows.
7. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the top and spread it out gently.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
9. Let cool before cutting into bars and serving.

How to serve Brownie Mud Hen Bars

Cut into bars after they cool. Serve them at room temperature. You can warm a bar slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for extra gooey marshmallows. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a popular dessert plate.

How to store Brownie Mud Hen Bars

Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen bars at room temperature before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Use room temperature eggs for smoother batter.
• Do not overmix once you add the dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
• If marshmallows brown too fast, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
• For a fun twist, add a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor, or try colorful mix-ins like M&M pieces similar to classic cosmic brownies ideas.

Variations & Substitutions

• Use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on taste.
• Swap mini marshmallows for a layer of marshmallow fluff.
• Add chopped nuts for crunch.
• Use gluten-free flour to make the bars gluten-free.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought brownie mix instead of making batter from scratch?
A: Yes. Use the prepared mix for the batter, then follow the same layering and baking steps.

Q: Will the marshmallows melt away while baking?
A: The marshmallows will soften and stick together, but layering them between batter keeps a visible gooey layer.

Q: How do I know when the bars are done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can bake them a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Conclusion

For another take and photos of a similar dish, see Brownie Mud Hen Bars – Crazy for Crust.
You can also read the original version and notes at Original Mud Hen Bars Recipe | by Leigh Anne Wilkes.

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