Arkansas Possum Pie – Dive deep into the core of classic American desserts with this Arkansas Possum Pie. This tempting treat features layers of rich flavors that dance on your tastebuds – think buttery crust, velvety cream cheese, decadent chocolate, and crowned with a creamy topping adorned with crunchy pecans. The main heroes in this recipe? Cream cheese, pecans, and of course, luscious chocolate.
The first time I made the Arkansas Possum Pie, it was a spontaneous decision. I had recently stumbled upon the recipe in an old cookbook, and the name alone had me intrigued. After assembling it, I waited impatiently for it to set. That evening, my husband took a bite, his eyes widening in pleasant surprise. “This is unlike anything I’ve tasted,” he remarked. And my little one? Well, she was too busy asking for a second slice to make a comment.
What makes this Arkansas Possum Pie truly special?
The Arkansas Possum Pie isn’t just your intermediate dessert; it’s an exploration of tastes and textures. Every bite invites you on a journey – from the nutty, crunchy crust to the silky cream cheese layer, ending with the lusciousness of the chocolate. It’s the immaculate fit for any table, be it a relaxed family dinner or a festive holiday show. And while it proudly claims its origins in classic American cuisine, the blend of ingredients and layers sets it distinctly apart from other traditional pies.
What You Need To Make This Arkansas Possum Pie Recipe?
Butter: To create a bound crust it’s important to melt the butter. If you’re conscious of your health using unsalted butter is a choice. Make sure it’s completely melted to achieve a uniform crust.
All-purpose Flour: The all-purpose flour forms the structure of the crust. Sifting the flour before use helps eliminate any lumps and enhances its texture.
Pecans: For a crunch and rich flavor, in both the crust and topping fresh pecans are ideal. When chopping them for the crust finely done pieces provide the texture.
Brown Sugar: Adding sugar to the crust brings a deep molasses flavor. You can use either dark sugar depending on your preference, with dark brown sugar offering a more intense caramel note.
Cream Cheese: To ensure easier blending and achieve a smoother layer let your cream cheese reach room temperature before using. Opting for high-quality cream cheese can enhance the taste of your pie.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream plays a role in both the cream cheese layer and topping. It should be well chilled before whipping as its content contributes to creating a rich texture in the pie.
Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar) is finer than granulated sugar making it perfect, for achieving smooth mixtures. Make sure to check for any lumps and break them apart or sieve them if necessary.
Chocolate Puddings: When making chocolate puddings it’s best to use a combination of regular chocolate and chocolate fudge pudding mixes. This will enhance the richness of the chocolate flavor. It’s important to follow the instructions, on the package. In this recipe, the suggested milk ratio guarantees a set that is perfect, for pie.
Milk: You can use any type of milk. Using whole milk will give your pudding a more indulgent taste and creamy texture.
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Steps To Make Arkansas Possum Pie:
Step 1: Start by setting your oven to 350°F.
Step 2: For that delectable crust, mix the melted butter, flour, pecans, and brown sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Get hands-on and press this mixture into your 9-inch pie pan, making sure to cover the bottom and sides. Pop it into the oven and wait for those tantalizing smells to tell you it’s lightly browned – around 15-20 minutes. Once done, give it some time to cool off.
Step 3: While waiting, let’s get that cream cheese layer done. Grab a clean bowl and whip together the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and heavy cream. An electric mixer works wonders here! Once smooth, lavish it onto your cooled crust.
Step 4: Now, for the chocolaty magic! In another bowl, blend the two pudding mixes with milk. Play the waiting game for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Layer this chocolatey goodness over your cream cheese spread and send it to the refrigerator. Patience, my friend, as it needs about 4 hours to truly come together.
Step 5: Serving time? Create that final creamy topping by whisking the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar until you see soft peaks. Gracefully spread this over your chocolate layer and sprinkle those pecans on top. Slice, serve, and watch the smiles unfold.
Tip:
When preparing the cream cheese layer you might want to think about incorporating a dash of vanilla extract or a touch of lemon zest. This little adjustment not only amplifies the range of flavors, in the pie but also contributes a delicate hint of freshness to counterbalance the richness of the other layers. It’s a detail that can elevate the taste sensation of the Arkansas Possum Pie!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Of course! While making a homemade crust can be delightful using a store-bought one is an option that can still result in a delicious pie.
How long can I store the Arkansas Possum Pie in the fridge?
For flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy the Arkansas Possum Pie within 2 to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it in the fridge to maintain its freshness.
Can I use only one type of chocolate pudding?
Certainly! While using one type of chocolate pudding is acceptable incorporating both types adds a layer of richness and intensifies the chocolate flavor that makes this pie so special.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Arkansas Possum Pie
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1/2 c 1 stick butter, melted
- 1 c all-purpose flour
- 3/4 c pecans finely chopped
- 1/4 c brown sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1/2 c powdered sugar
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 3.4 ounces box instant chocolate pudding
- 1 3.4 ounces box instant chocolate fudge pudding
- 1 3/4 c milk
For the Topping:
- 1/2 c heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 c pecan halves
Instructions
For the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Combine melted butter, flour chopped pecans, and brown sugar.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake until the edges turn brown, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool.
For the cream cheese layer:
- Blend room-temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar and heavy cream together until you get a smooth mixture.
- Spread this blend, over the crust.
For the chocolate layer:
- Mix both types of pudding with milk until it thickens (around 5 minutes).
- Layer this thickened pudding over the cream cheese.
For the topping:
- Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Spread this whipped cream over the chocolate layer. Sprinkle some pecan halves on top.
- Chill for 4 hours, before serving to allow all these delicious layers to set perfectly. Enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
