Possum Pie

Table of Contents

1. Arkansas Possume Pie Ingredients
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make This Possum Pie Recipe
4. Troubleshooting Tips for Arkansas Possum Pie
5. How to Easily Cut Possum Pie
6. How to Serve Possum Pie
7. How to Store This Recipe for Arkansas Possum Pie
8. Why You’ll Love Possum Pie
9. Frequently Asked Questions
10. More Sweet Treats
11. JUMP TO RECIPE
12. Even More Recipes You’ll Love

Contrary to the unusual name, there is not any actual possum in possum pie! This oddly named Southern recipe features a delicious pecan shortbread crust topped with cream cheese, a delicious layer of chocolate pudding, and creamy whipped cream.

Arkansas Possume Pie Ingredients

You’ll need:

For the Pie Crust:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring

Chocolate Pudding Layer:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned into measuring cup, not packed)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1¾ cup whole milk
• 3 egg yolks, slightly beaten

Whipped Topping Layer:

• 8-ounce tub whipped topping
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

Substitutions and Additions

CRUST: You can use a graham cracker crust for this recipe if you’d prefer. You can make your own using a food processor to crush graham crackers or buy pre-made graham cracker crumbs.

SUGAR: For the sugar in the crust and filling, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or dark brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

PECANS: Walnuts or almonds can be a good substitute for pecans in the topping for a different nutty flavor. You can use them in equal amounts.

VANILLA EXTRACT: Almond extract can replace vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Since almond extract is stronger, use half the amount called for vanilla. This change adds a sweet, nutty essence that pairs well with the creamy filling.

SAUCES: Add hot fudge, toffee sauce, caramel sauce or a fruit puree like raspberry or strawberry.

COOL WHIP: You can use our recipe for homemade whipped cream in place of Cool Whip if you’d like.

How to Make This Possum Pie Recipe

STEP ONE: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray an eight-inch pie pan or round cake pan with nonstick spray. Set aside.

STEP TWO: In a small mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, finely chopped pecans, melted butter, light brown sugar, and salt.

Using a wooden spoon or fork, stir the ingredients together until completely combined.

STEP THREE: Evenly press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Bake for 15 minutes. Allow the crust to cool completely.

STEP FOUR: Using a handheld mixer and a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed for 30 seconds.

Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and clear vanilla.

Continue mixing on medium-high speed for 30 seconds to one minute until the cream cheese mixture is smooth.

STEP FIVE: Evenly spread the cheesecake layer mixture on top of the cooled pie crust and set aside.

STEP SIX: In a two-quart medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and cornstarch. Do not turn the heat on yet.

In a small bowl, whisk the milk and the egg yolks.

STEP SEVEN: Whisk the milk mixture in the cocoa powder mixture and heat over medium heat, continually whisking.

Cook for six to seven minutes or until the chocolate pudding mixture is thick.

STEP EIGHT: Evenly spread the pudding layer over the top of the cream cheese mixture.

Cover and chill in the refrigerator for four to six hours while the possum pie sets.

You may also chill the pie overnight.

STEP NINE: Just before serving, remove the pie from the refrigerator and top with the whipped topping.

If you wish to make chocolate shavings, you can use a vegetable peeler and a chocolate bar.

Hold the chocolate bar steady and, with even motions, gently scrape down the sides of the chocolate bar. You may also use store-bought chocolate shavings.

Troubleshooting Tips for Arkansas Possum Pie

My crust is crumbly or falling apart.

Solution: Be sure the butter is evenly mixed with the cookie crumbs. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of melted butter. Press the crust firmly into the pan to help it hold together.

My filling is lumpy.

Solution: The cream cheese should be at room temperature for smooth mixing. If lumps occur, continue to beat the mixture, or gently warm it in a double boiler while stirring until smooth.

The chocolate layer is too hard.

Solution: To prevent the chocolate layer from hardening too much, avoid overcooking. Cook on low heat and stir constantly. If it’s too thick, mix in a tablespoon of cream to soften.

The pie isn’t setting properly.

Solution: Ensure each layer is given enough time to set in the refrigerator before adding the next layer. Also, check that the proportions of ingredients, especially for the filling, are accurate.

The top is weeping or melting.

Solution: Whip the cream just until stiff peaks form. Over-whipping can cause it to become watery. Also, add it to the pie only when you’re ready to serve.

The crust is too hard to cut.

Solution: A well-chilled crust can sometimes become too hard. Let the pie sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting. Use a sharp, hot knife for cleaner slices.

The chocolate layer is separating from the cream cheese layer.

Solution: Allow the chocolate layer to cool slightly before pouring it over the cream cheese layer. This prevents it from melting the cream cheese and helps it adhere better.

How to Easily Cut Possum Pie

1. Chill Thoroughly Before Cutting: Ensure the pie is completely set by chilling it in the refrigerator for the recommended time, preferably overnight. A well-chilled pie is easier to cut.
2. Use a Sharp, Thin Knife: A sharp, thin-bladed knife works best for cutting through the layers without causing them to crumble or mix.
3. Dip Knife in Hot Water: Before cutting, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry. The warmth helps the knife glide through the layers, especially the chocolate and cream cheese layers.
4. Clean Knife Between Slices: Wipe the knife clean with a damp cloth between slices. This helps maintain clean and neat layers for each serving.
5. Let Pie Sit at Room Temperature Briefly: If the pie is too hard to cut straight from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This slight softening makes it easier to cut.
6. Cut With a Gentle Sawing Motion: Use a gentle sawing motion instead of pressing down hard. This technique helps preserve the layers and results in neater slices.
7. Pre-score the Topping: If using a whipped topping or chocolate shavings, pre-scoring the topping before cutting through the layers can help keep the presentation neat.
8. Use a Pie Server: Once sliced, use a pie server to carefully transfer each piece to a plate, supporting the whole slice to prevent it from falling apart.

How to Serve Possum Pie

With Ice Cream: Serve this delicious dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce, butterscotch sauce, or salted caramel sauce.

Classic Coffee Pairing: There’s nothing like a slice of possum pie with a cup of good coffee or a vanilla latte. Opt for a medium roast to accentuate the chocolate and pecan flavors of the pie.

Fresh Berry Medley: Top or serve the pie with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The berries cut through the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing twist.

Whiskey or Bourbon Pairing: For an adult gathering, pair the pie with a glass of whiskey or bourbon. The smoky and woody notes of the liquor complement the nutty and chocolatey layers of the pie, offering a sophisticated dining experience.

How to Store This Recipe for Arkansas Possum Pie

Make Ahead: Arkansas possum pie is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it up to two days before serving.

Simply follow the recipe steps and assemble the pie but hold off on adding the final whipped cream topping.

Cover the pie with plastic wrap or a pie saver and store it in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to serve, add the fresh whipped cream topping for that perfect final touch. This approach keeps everything fresh and ensures your pie is party-ready in no time!

In the Fridge: After enjoying your pie, you might have leftovers — although it’s so good, there might not be any! If you do, store the pie in the refrigerator.

It will keep well for up to three days. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.

Remember, the fresher the pie, the better the flavor, so try to enjoy it within this timeframe.

In the Freezer: Freezing Arkansas possum pie is a great option if you want to extend its shelf life.

To freeze, wrap the pie tightly with aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Properly stored, it will maintain its best quality for about two to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. It’s best not to rush this process, as a gradual thaw helps maintain the pie’s texture and flavor integrity.

Why You’ll Love Possum Pie

Diverse Layers: The combination of crunchy pecan crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and rich chocolate pudding offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors​​.

Flexible Recipe: It allows for substitutions and additions, enabling you to customize the pie according to your taste preferences.

Easy-to-Follow Instructions: The recipe includes clear, step-by-step instructions with useful tips, making it approachable for both novice and experienced bakers​​.

Versatile Serving Suggestions: The recipe suggests serving options like pairing with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge sauce, enhancing its appeal for different tastes.

Convenient Storage Options: It can be easily stored in the refrigerator or frozen, making it a practical dessert choice for advanced preparation​.

This popular Arkansas possum pie recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It blends a nutty, crunchy crust with layers of creamy cheesecake and rich chocolate pudding, all topped off with fluffy whipped cream. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and versatile.

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