Arkansas Possum Pie is a classic Southern dessert, made up of luscious layers of pecan crust, cream cheese filling, and a rich chocolate pudding, all topped off with whipped cream. Despite the playful name, there’s no possum involved—just delicious, creamy layers that create an irresistible treat! It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for family gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.9 oz) package instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 ¾ cups milk
Topping:
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- Extra pecans or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your crust bakes evenly and becomes perfectly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a crumbly dough. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, making sure it’s spread evenly. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Once baked, set the crust aside and let it cool completely before adding the other layers.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream (or whipped topping) to lighten the mixture. Spread this cream cheese layer over the cooled pecan crust, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
In a clean bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Once the pudding has thickened, carefully pour it over the cream cheese layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Top the chocolate pudding layer with a generous amount of whipped cream (or whipped topping). For an extra decorative touch, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or chocolate shavings over the whipped cream.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and chill for 2-4 hours to allow the layers to set properly. This chilling time ensures that the dessert holds its shape when sliced. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: This pie is best served chilled, making it a refreshing and rich dessert. It’s perfect for serving at potlucks, holidays, or any time you’re craving something sweet and layered.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The whipped cream topping may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will still be delicious.
- Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pie without the whipped topping for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and add fresh whipped cream before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. This will prevent lumps in the cream cheese layer and ensure a smooth texture.
- Chill Time: Letting the pie chill for a few hours is crucial to firm up the layers and make slicing easier.
- Pudding Mix: Make sure to use instant pudding mix, as it sets quickly and has the perfect consistency for this dessert.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Paula Deen: “For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the crust. This brings out a deeper nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy layers.”
- Ree Drummond: “Don’t rush the chilling process! A well-chilled pie will hold its layers beautifully when sliced, making each bite as pretty as it is delicious.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why is it called Possum Pie?
The name “Possum Pie” likely comes from the playful nature of the dessert—it “plays possum” by hiding its delicious layers beneath the whipped cream topping, just like a possum playing dead. - Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch pan, but the layers will be slightly thicker, and you may need to adjust the chilling time. - Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, homemade chocolate pudding can be used, but make sure it’s fully cooled before adding it to the cream cheese layer. - Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, Possum Pie can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and add the whipped topping right before serving for the freshest texture. - Can I substitute the pecans?
If you have a nut allergy or don’t like pecans, you can substitute with crushed graham crackers or even omit them altogether. - Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream gives a lighter, airier texture, and it tastes delicious with the other layers. - How do I prevent the crust from sticking?
Greasing the pan lightly before pressing in the pecan crust helps with easy removal later. You can also line the pan with parchment paper. - What other toppings can I use?
You can get creative with toppings by adding shaved chocolate, cocoa powder dusting, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. Adjust the baking and chilling time accordingly. - How do I make the crust extra crunchy?
For a crunchier crust, bake it a little longer—about 5 extra minutes—but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
This Arkansas Possum Pie is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey layers, making it a standout Southern dessert. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s sure to be a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy!