Possum Pie

When you need a quick dessert, no-bake recipes are the perfect choice. Our recipe for possum pie stands out as a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make over and over again. With layers of sweetened cream cheese, chocolate pudding, pecans and whipped cream, it’s a dreamy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

The easy possum pie recipe is a beloved southern dessert made with a handful of simple, easy-to-find ingredients. It comes together in a matter of minutes and sets up in the fridge in about four hours.

What is possum pie?

Possum pie is a layered no-bake pie made with chocolate, cream cheese and pecans. It’s said to have originated in the late 1980s in Arkansas, earning its name because of the way each tasty layer “plays possum,” hiding as a surprise under the whipped cream topping.

Depending on where you live, this treat may have other names. In the South, it’s often called Arkansas possum pie. It may also be referred to as chocolate lush, chocolate layer pie or four-layer delight.

Possum Pie Ingredients

• Graham cracker crust: A graham cracker crust serves as the base for this pie, which is one of our favorite easy dessert ideas. You can make a homemade graham cracker crust or pick up a store-bought crust.
• Cream cheese: The surprise in this Arkansas possum pie is the cream cheese layer. For best results, soften the cream cheese before mixing it with the sugar.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, confectioners’ sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the cream cheese layer and plays a role in thickening the layer for great texture.
• Pecans: Chopped pecans add flavor and crunch to the center of the pie, and pecan halves are also used as a finishing garnish.
• Milk: Milk provides moisture to help the pudding mix set.
• Vanilla extract: A small amount of vanilla extract is added to this possum pie recipe to enhance the flavor of the pudding mixture. Homemade vanilla extract is a great way to take this simple dessert to the next level.
• Vanilla and chocolate pudding mixes: Instant vanilla and instant chocolate pudding mixes are used for the main layer of this no-bake pie. It’s important to choose instant pudding so it can be poured easily into the crust.
• Heavy whipping cream: To make a homemade whipped cream topping, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.

Directions

Step 1: Make the cream cheese layer

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Spoon the mixture into the graham cracker crust and sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Step 2: Make the pudding filling

In a large bowl, whisk the milk, vanilla and pudding mixes for two minutes. Let stand for two minutes until soft-set. Spoon the pudding over the pecans.

Step 3: Chill and serve

Refrigerate the pie for at least four hours to allow it to set. Top the pie with whipped cream and garnish with pecan halves.

Possum Pie Variations

• Try other pudding flavors: Possum pie traditionally features chocolate, but you could make it with any pudding flavor you like. Try a version with butterscotch, pistachio or even banana cream.
• Use a different nut: Pecans are a classic addition to this pie, but you can swap in chopped walnuts. Or, skip the nuts altogether for a smoother consistency.
• Swap in whipped topping: This recipe for possum pie calls for homemade whipped cream. If you’re short on time and need a shortcut, use store-bought whipped topping from the freezer aisle. Let the whipped topping thaw before spreading it over the pudding layer.

How to Store Possum Pie

Possum pie contains cream cheese and whipped cream, so it should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it chilled. To ensure that it tastes fresh when you want another slice, keep the pie in an airtight container or wrap it in storage wrap.

How long does possum pie last?

Kept in the refrigerator, possum pie will last up to three days.

Can you freeze possum pie?

Possum pie freezes well, so you can stash it in the freezer for up to two months and enjoy leftovers at a later date. For best results, freeze the pie without the whipped cream topping. Wrap the pie in storage wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Possum Pie Tips

How can you serve possum pie?

Arkansas possum pie is already topped and garnished with whipped cream and pecans, but you could dress it up further. Consider topping the pie with chocolate shavings. For more chocolate, you could even drizzle chocolate sauce over the top. Or, try it with a homemade berry sauce.

Can you use cook-and-serve pudding to make this possum pie recipe?

We don’t recommend using cook-and-serve pudding to make this recipe for possum pie. When instant pudding is soft-set, it’s much simpler to pour and spread into a prepared pie crust. That said, you could use cook-and-serve pudding in a pinch, but it will be more challenging to work with.

How do you make a smooth filling for possum pie?

To make sure your possum pie has a smooth, luscious cream cheese layer, soften the cream cheese to room temperature so it spreads easily. Also, for a smooth second layer, be sure to whisk the pudding mixes together well.