Southern Possum Pie Recipe: A Classic Southern Dessert (Not What You Think!)
If you’re imagining a pie made from actual possum, think again! Southern Possum Pie is a beloved no-bake layered dessert with a creamy, chocolatey, and pecan-filled goodness that’s a staple in Southern kitchens. Despite its unusual name, this pie is a deliciously sweet treat that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you crave a rich, decadent dessert.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔ What is Southern Possum Pie?
✔ The Best Authentic Recipe
✔ Step-by-Step Instructions
✔ Tips & Variations
✔ Why It’s a Southern Favorite
What Is Southern Possum Pie?
Contrary to its name, this pie contains no possum meat! The name likely comes from its “hidden” layers—just like a possum plays dead, the delicious layers inside this pie are a sweet surprise.
Key Layers of Possum Pie:
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Buttery Pecan Crust – A crunchy, nutty base.
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Cream Cheese Layer – Sweet and tangy.
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Chocolate Pudding Layer – Rich and velvety.
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Whipped Cream Topping – Light and fluffy.
It’s similar to chocolate cheesecake meets pecan pie, but easier to make!
Southern Possum Pie Recipe
Prep Time: 20 mins | Chill Time: 4+ hours | Servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
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1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
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½ cup finely chopped pecans
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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6 tbsp melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
For the Chocolate Layer:
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2 (3.4 oz) packages instant chocolate pudding
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2 ½ cups cold milk
For the Topping:
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1 ½ cups whipped cream
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½ cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
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Chocolate shavings (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
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In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, pecans, sugar, and melted butter.
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Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish and chill for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
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Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
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Fold in whipped topping gently.
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Spread over the crust and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Add the Chocolate Pudding Layer
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Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened (about 2 mins).
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Pour over the cream cheese layer and smooth evenly.
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Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
4. Finish with Whipped Cream & Pecans
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Before serving, top with whipped cream, pecans, and chocolate shavings.
Tips & Variations
🔹 Use Oreo crust for a deeper chocolate flavor.
🔹 Swap chocolate pudding for butterscotch or vanilla for a twist.
🔹 Add a caramel drizzle for extra decadence.
🔹 Make it boozy with a splash of bourbon in the cream cheese layer.
Why Southerners Love Possum Pie
✅ No baking required – Perfect for hot Southern days.
✅ Crowd-pleaser – Always a hit at gatherings.
✅ Fun name, amazing taste – Great conversation starter!
Final Verdict: A Must-Try Southern Dessert
This Southern Possum Pie is a creamy, crunchy, chocolatey masterpiece that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a holiday feast, it’ll disappear fast!
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