Possum Pie is a no-bake, layered dessert that starts with a buttery shortbread cookie crust, followed by a nutty cream cheese layer, a blend of chocolate and vanilla pudding, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. I love to finish it off with a sprinkle of pecans and chocolate shavings. Despite its playful name, there’s no possum involved—just layers of deliciousness! And if you are a fan of this layered goodness, you’ve got to check out my Piggy Pie Dessert, too. It’s another irresistible pudding treat!
Why Is It Called Possum Pie?
The name “Possum Pie” is as fun as the dessert! It comes from the saying “playing possum,” which means to pretend or hide something. This pie might look like a plain chocolate dessert, but it’s hiding tasty surprises–a cream cheese layer, a rich mix of chocolate and vanilla pudding, and chopped pecans. The name is sure to make people curious—and once you take a bite, you’ll see why this dessert is such a favorite!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Crust: The crust is made of shortbread cookie crumbs and melted butter. Make sure the butter coats all of the cookie crumbs so they stay together! I think a graham cracker crust would be delicious, too!
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened, or has come to room temperature before making the cream cheese layer.
- Pecans: One of the ‘hidden’ surprises in this possum pie is the chopped pecans. I love the surprise nutty crunch in each bite. I also add some to the top of the pie for serving. If you are allergic or don’t have pecans, just leave them out! The pie will still be SO creamy and delicious!
- Pudding: Both chocolate pudding and vanilla pudding are layered in this pie, which is the perfect balance of rich and creamy! Make sure you are using instant pudding mix.
- Whipped Cream: Before serving, add a generous amount of whipped cream over the top of the pie.
- Chocolate Curls: It’s easy to make mini chocolate curls to add a little decorative (and chocolatey) touch to the pie. If you don’t have chocolate curls, add shaved chocolate, mini chocolate chips, or chocolate sprinkles.
Can I Use Only One Flavor or A Different Kind Of Pudding Mix In Possum Pie?
Yes, you can use only one flavor of pudding or even try a different kind of pudding mix in Possum Pie! If you want a richer pie, you could use all chocolate pudding. For a sweeter and lighter taste, try all vanilla pudding. You can also experiment with other flavors, like butterscotch or banana, to make the pie your own. Just make sure to use instant pudding so it sets properly!
Can I Leave Out The Pecans or Use A Different Kind Of Nut?
Yes, you can leave out the pecans if you don’t like them or can’t have them. You can also use a different nut, like walnuts or almonds if you prefer. The pie will still taste great with or without the nuts!
How To Store Possum Pie
To store possum pie, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pie.
How To Freeze Possum Pie
If you are not going to finish the pie in a few days, freeze it for later. (This is also a great way to get a head start on your holiday desserts!) To freeze the pie, I recommend freezing it without the whipped cream topping. That is easy to add when ready to serve. Assemble the pie but without the whipped cream layer. Next, wrap the pie in plastic wrap and another layer of aluminum foil. Label and date the packaging; it will last up to 1-2 months in the freezer. When ready to share, or just enjoy yourself, let the pie thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, spread fresh whipped cream on top and garnish as desired.
Possum Pie
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups shortbread cookie crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 packet (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (62.5 g) confectioners' sugar
- ¼ cup (27 g) pecans, finely chopped
Pudding Layer
- ⅓ cup (92 g) instant chocolate pudding mix
- ¼ cup (70 g) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ¾ cups (429 g) whole milk, cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 8 ounces whipped cream, for topping
- pecans, chopped, for topping
- chocolate shavings, for topping
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the shortbread cookie crumbs and melted butter, stirring with a fork until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a deep 9-inch pie pan to form the crust. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and confectioners' sugar. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the finely chopped pecans over the cream cheese layer. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the chocolate pudding mix, vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes, or until thickened. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the pecan layer.
- Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the pudding layer. Garnish with chopped pecans and chocolate shavings.
- Serve chilled.
Did you make this recipe?
Thank you for making my recipe! You took pictures, right? Well go ahead and post them on Instagram! Be sure to mention me @iambaker and use the hashtag #YouAreBaker.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This possum pie is amazing! The layers of cream cheese, pudding, and whipped cream make it so rich and creamy. The shortbread crust is the perfect base.
Elizabeth
This might be one of my favorite desserts of all time! I loved the thick crust, and the pudding layers were so good. And, the pecans worked really well in it. I'm in love!
Annabelle
I love how this pie has all the flavors I enjoy—chocolate, vanilla, and cream cheese. It's smooth, sweet, and the pecans add a nice crunch.
Bella
I was surprised by how much I liked this! The flavors blend really well together, and it’s a fun dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Selena
This pie is so easy to make and tastes incredible! The creamy layers and crunchy pecans on top are a great combo.
