Don’t worry — there’s no actual possum in this pie. But try telling that to my kids the first time I served it at a Sunday lunch! It’s all part of the charm. Arkansas Possum Pie gets its name because it “plays possum” — looking like one thing on top, but hiding layers of chocolatey, creamy goodness underneath.

I first had this pie at a potluck in Little Rock while visiting an old friend. I was expecting a simple whipped topping dessert… and then bam, I hit that rich chocolate pudding layer, a tangy cream cheese middle, and the buttery pecan crust on the bottom. I was in love.

This layered pie is pure Southern comfort — cool, creamy, and perfect for holidays, summer cookouts, or anytime you need a sweet, make-ahead dessert that disappears fast.

Ingredients for Arkansas Possum Pie Recipe

For the crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup chopped pecans

For the cream cheese layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the chocolate layer:

• 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding

• 1 (3.9 oz) box instant vanilla pudding

• 2½ cups cold milk

For the topping:

• 2 cups whipped topping

• Optional: shaved chocolate or extra chopped pecans for garnish

How to Make Arkansas Possum Pie Recipe

1. Make the crust. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, and pecans until crumbly. Press into a 9x13 baking dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.

2. Mix the cream cheese layer. Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping. Spread over the cooled crust.

3. Prepare the pudding layer. In a separate bowl, whisk both pudding mixes with cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Pour over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.

4. Top it off. Spread remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. Garnish with shaved chocolate or pecans if desired.

5. Chill. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set before slicing.

Sarah’s Simple Tips

• Make it the night before. This pie is even better when it’s had time to chill and set properly.

• Use a serrated knife to slice cleanly through all those layers.

• Make it extra pretty. Top with chocolate curls or pecan halves right before serving.

Flavorful Conclusion

Arkansas Possum Pie is a Southern favorite that’s fun to serve and even more fun to eat. With its hidden layers and playful name, it’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles, second helpings, and a little bit of sweet mischief to your table.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 12 servings):
Calories: 360
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 23g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 310mg