Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Possum Pie is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves a balance of flavors and textures. The nutty crust adds a delightful crunch, while the cream cheese layer provides tangy sweetness. The chocolate layer is smooth, decadent, and perfectly balanced by the airy whipped cream topping. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and always looks impressive on the table.

Possum Pie Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust:

1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup pecans
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 cup sugar

Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 Tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla

Chocolate Layer:

3/4 cup sugar
3 Tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups milk
2 egg yolks
4 oz bittersweet chocolate
1 tsp vanilla
2 Tbsp butter

Topping:

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a bowl, combine ground pecans, flour, salt, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into a deep-dish pie plate to form the crust. Blind bake until golden brown, then let it cool completely.
Beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
For the chocolate pudding, cook sugar, cornstarch, salt, milk, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking until it thickens and begins to boil. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate, vanilla, and butter until smooth.
Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until firm.
Just before serving, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over the pie and garnish with toasted, chopped pecans if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10
Prep time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories: 620 kcal per serving

Variations

Use a graham cracker crust instead of pecans for a simpler version.
Swap bittersweet chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or shaved chocolate on top for extra flair.
Try flavored whipped cream (like almond or hazelnut extract) for a twist.
Layer sliced bananas between the cream cheese and chocolate pudding layers for a Southern banana-chocolate spin.

Storage/Reheating

Possum Pie is best enjoyed chilled. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as the creamy layers may separate when thawed. Reheating is not recommended; simply serve straight from the fridge.

FAQs

What is Possum Pie?

Possum Pie is a Southern layered dessert with a nutty crust, cream cheese filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream topping. Despite its name, it contains no possum.

Can I make Possum Pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie is perfect for making in advance since it needs time to chill. Prepare it up to 24 hours before serving.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Blind baking the crust until golden helps prevent sogginess. Make sure it cools completely before adding the cream cheese layer.

Can I use store-bought pudding mix?

Yes, you can use chocolate pudding mix for convenience, but homemade pudding gives the best flavor.

What type of chocolate works best?

Bittersweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the other layers, but you can use semisweet or milk chocolate if you prefer.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, Cool Whip can be used for the topping, but freshly whipped cream tastes richer and fresher.

How long does it need to chill?

The pie should chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for firm layers.

Can I freeze Possum Pie?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and pudding layers may change.

What can I serve with Possum Pie?

It pairs well with coffee, iced tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Possum Pie is a delightful Southern classic that combines crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey layers into one irresistible dessert. With its make-ahead convenience and show-stopping presentation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your collection for holidays, gatherings, and special occasions.

Lily