Arkansas Possum Pie

This Arkansas Possum Pie is a layered dessert with a buttery pecan crust, creamy cheesecake filling, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream.

this Recipe

Look, I get it. The first time I heard “Arkansas Possum Pie,” I did a double take. Possum? Like the actual animal? In a pie?! And if you had the same reaction, congratulations—you’re normal.

But don’t worry. No possums were harmed in the making of this pie.

Arkansas Possum Pie is actually one of the best trickster desserts out there. It “plays possum” by looking like a simple whipped cream pie, but the moment you cut into it, surprise! You hit layers of chocolate pudding, a sweet and tangy cream cheese layer, and a buttery pecan crust. It’s rich, smooth, crunchy, and just the right amount of sweet.

I had my first slice at a family reunion, and I remember my aunt saying, “Just try it—trust me.” Now, when someone tells me to “just try” something, I get suspicious (trauma from my mom making me eat boiled Brussels sprouts as a kid). But I took a bite, and suddenly, I was the one hovering over the dessert table, making sure I got seconds before it disappeared.

If you love chocolate, cheesecake, and pie (so basically, if you’re human), you need this in your life.

Why You’ll Love This Arkansas Possum Pie Recipe?

• It’s an instant conversation starter – The name alone gets people talking.
• The layers are next-level – Crunchy crust, creamy cheesecake, rich pudding, fluffy whipped topping? It just works.
• It’s ridiculously easy to make – No pastry skills required.
• It’s perfect for any occasion – Holidays, family get-togethers, or just because you want to impress people with a pie that sounds questionable but tastes incredible.

Ingredient Notes:

This isn’t just any pie—it’s a perfectly layered experience. Let’s talk about what makes each layer so good.

The Buttery Pecan Crust

• Butter – Because butter makes everything better.
• Flour – Helps hold the crust together without making it too dense.
• Pecans – Adds that nutty crunch (and a little Southern charm).
• Brown Sugar – A touch of sweetness that caramelizes in the oven.

The Cream Cheese Layer

• Cream Cheese – Smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of tang.
• Powdered Sugar – Blends easily and adds just enough sweetness.
• Heavy Cream – Lightens it up, so it’s not too dense.

The Chocolate Pudding Layer

• Instant Chocolate Pudding + Instant Chocolate Fudge Pudding – The mix of these two makes the chocolate layer extra thick and rich.
• Milk – Turns that pudding mix into smooth, chocolatey heaven.

The Whipped Cream Topping

• Heavy Cream + Powdered Sugar – Fluffy, slightly sweet, and balances out all the richness.
• Pecan Halves – A crunchy finishing touch.

Pro Tip: Toast the pecans before using them. It takes 5 minutes and makes a huge difference in flavor.

How To Make Arkansas Possum Pie?

This pie looks fancy, but I promise—it’s stupidly easy to put together.

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix melted butter, flour, chopped pecans, and brown sugar until crumbly. Press this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Cream Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until smooth. Spread this over the cooled crust, then pop it in the fridge while you work on the next layer.

Step 3: Chocolate Pudding Layer

Whisk together chocolate pudding mix, chocolate fudge pudding mix, and milk until thick (about 5 minutes). Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Whipped Cream Topping

Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate pudding layer, then sprinkle pecan halves on top.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Cover and chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) so the layers can set properly. When ready to serve, grab a knife, slice in, and prepare for people to ask, “Wait, why is it called Possum Pie again?”

Storage Options:

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better the next day.
• Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 2 months, but the whipped cream might lose its fluffiness. If freezing, wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Pro Tip: If making ahead, wait to add the whipped cream until just before serving for the freshest texture.

Variations and Substitutions:

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

• Swap the pecans for walnuts – Still nutty, just a slightly different taste.
• Use a graham cracker crust – If you’re out of pecans, this is an easy alternative.
• Make it boozy – Add a splash of bourbon to the chocolate pudding for an adult twist.
• Try a butterscotch version – Use butterscotch pudding instead of chocolate.

What to Serve with Arkansas Possum Pie?

This pie is already amazing, but pairing it with the right side makes it even better:

• Coffee or Espresso – Cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Because more creaminess is never a bad idea.
• Salted Caramel Drizzle – If you want to take things over the top.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is it called “Possum Pie”?
Because it “plays possum” by looking simple but hiding layers of deliciousness inside.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Do I have to use both kinds of pudding?
No, but the chocolate + chocolate fudge combo makes the filling extra rich and decadent.

Arkansas Possum Pie is one of those sneaky-good desserts—funny name, seriously good flavor. It’s creamy, crunchy, chocolatey, and way too easy to eat. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a summer BBQ, or just because you feel like impressing people with a pie that sounds questionable but tastes amazing, this recipe never disappoints.

So, are you making this ASAP? Got a fun variation to try? Let me know—I love hearing about your baking adventures!

Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:

Southern Chocolate Cobbler

Tasty Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake Recipe

Cheesy Smoked Sausage Skillet

Arkansas Possum Pie

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Immerse yourself in the realm of Arkansas Possum Pie, a dessert that flawlessly combines the allure of the South with a touch of sophistication. It all starts with a crust that turns brown offering a subtle caramel note, from the brown sugar. Then comes a smooth cream cheese layer that adds depth followed by a velvety chocolate layer that enriches the experience even further. Topped off with an airy whipped cream cloud. Garnished with pecan gems each mouthful of this pie is like a symphony of delightful flavors and textures taking you on an extraordinary culinary adventure, unlike any other.

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1 Servings

Ingredients

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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

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Instructions

 

For the crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Combine melted butter, flour chopped pecans, and brown sugar.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan.
4. Bake until the edges turn brown, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool.

For the cream cheese layer:

1. Blend room-temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar and heavy cream together until you get a smooth mixture.
2. Spread this blend, over the crust.

For the chocolate layer:

1. Mix both types of pudding with milk until it thickens (around 5 minutes).
2. Layer this thickened pudding over the cream cheese.

For the topping:

1. Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
2. Spread this whipped cream over the chocolate layer. Sprinkle some pecan halves on top.
3. Chill for 4 hours, before serving to allow all these delicious layers to set perfectly. Enjoy!

Notes

To make this Arkansas Possum Pie gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour in the crust with an equal amount of gluten-free baking blend. Also, ensure your chosen instant pudding mixes are labeled gluten-free. Enjoy the same delightful flavors, now suited for gluten-free needs!

Audrey

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Bitty

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!

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