Possum Pie

 Possum Pie – A Southern Classic with Layers of Heaven

If you’ve never heard of Possum Pie, get ready to meet your new favorite dessert. This sweet Southern classic is a chilled layered pie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It combines a buttery pecan crust, a silky cream cheese layer, a double layer of chocolate and vanilla pudding, and a fluffy whipped cream topping — finished with chocolate shavings for that final touch of elegance.

Possum Pie is a hit at family gatherings, church potlucks, and holiday celebrations. It’s easy to make ahead, feeds a crowd, and offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures: crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey in every bite. 

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60 g) finely chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the cream cheese layer:

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 cup (240 ml) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

For the pudding layer:

• 1 package (3.9 oz / 110 g) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 1 package (3.4 oz / 96 g) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 3/4 cups (650 ml) cold milk

For the topping:

• Remaining whipped topping
• Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for garnish
• Step-by-Step Directions

 Make the pecan crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until well blended and crumbly.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Let the crust cool completely before adding the next layer.

6. Prepare the cream cheese layer

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until creamy and lump-free.
3. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping with a spatula until fully combined.
4. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
5. Mix the pudding layer

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix, vanilla pudding mix, and cold milk.
2. Beat for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3. Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out evenly.
4. Add the final topping

1. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
2. Sprinkle chocolate shavings, curls, or mini chocolate chips on top for a beautiful finish.
3. Chill before serving

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the layers can set and the flavors meld together.
• Tips for the Best Possum Pie

• Use cold milk for the pudding so it thickens quickly.
• Room-temperature cream cheese blends more smoothly, preventing lumps.
• For an extra chocolatey touch, use two packages of chocolate pudding instead of mixing with vanilla.
• Dip your knife in hot water before slicing for clean, perfect layers.
• Why is it called “Possum Pie”?

Despite the name, there’s no possum in this dessert! The pie gets its quirky name because it “plays possum” — the chocolate layer is hidden under a fluffy white cream topping, just like a possum pretending to be something it’s not. 

Serving ideas

• Serve chilled with a cup of coffee or iced tea.
• Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
• Pair with fresh strawberries for a fruity contrast.
• Nutrition (per slice, approx.)

• Calories: ~320
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbs: 36 g
• Protein: 5 g