Decadent, rich, and irresistibly chocolatey, Mississippi Mud Pie is a classic Southern dessert that combines a fudgy chocolate crust, creamy chocolate filling, and a whipped topping layer. This pie lives up to its name with its dense, “mud-like” texture and deep chocolate flavor, making it a perfect finish for any meal or a show-stopping dessert for special occasions.
Description
The Ultimate Mississippi Mud Pie features a chocolate cookie crust that adds a crunchy contrast to the ultra-rich chocolate filling. Layers of chocolate ganache, creamy pudding, and whipped topping create a luscious experience with every bite. The pie is often garnished with chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Easy to make ahead and keep in the fridge, it’s a crowd-pleaser for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a chocolate dessert with wow factor.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
For the crust:
- 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 20 cookies, crushed)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: chocolate shavings or chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake crust for 8–10 minutes, then cool completely.
2. Make the chocolate ganache filling:
- Heat 1 cup heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour hot cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Allow ganache to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the pudding layer:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together milk and instant chocolate pudding mix until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Fold softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into the pudding until smooth.
4. Assemble the pie:
- Pour the ganache into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Carefully spoon or spread the cream cheese pudding mixture over the ganache layer.
- Chill pie in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
5. Prepare whipped topping:
- In a bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the pudding layer just before serving.
6. Garnish and serve:
- Top with chocolate shavings or chopped pecans if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Nutrition (per slice approx.)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
Tips & Tricks
- Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor and smooth ganache.
- To make it easier to slice, chill the pie thoroughly before cutting.
- For a nutty twist, add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the crust or topping.
- If you prefer a boozy touch, add 1 tablespoon of bourbon or coffee liqueur to the ganache.
Something Extra from Me
Try adding a layer of marshmallow fluff or mini marshmallows between the ganache and pudding layers for a gooey, nostalgic twist. You can also swirl caramel sauce into the pudding layer for extra richness.
Serve this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to balance the richness and add a refreshing contrast.
