Mississippi Mud Pie

10 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 30 m Total: 50 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Mississippi Mud Pie
This delicious chocolate pie with pecans and cream cheese is easy to make and could be used with any flavor Jell-O pudding. The recipe is very rich, with a buttery pecan crust, layers of chocolate pudding and sweetened cream cheese. You may substitute sugar free Jell-O and low fat cream cheese for the original.

Ingredients

10 servings
  • 1 cup flour
  • dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar
  • 1 block butter not margarine (8 tblsp)
  • 1 cup nuts your choice I use pecans
  • 1 block cream cheese (8 oz)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 tbsp whipped cream
  • 2 packages (6 oz) instant chocolate pudding
  • 3 cups milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, butter, and nuts to form a crust. Press into a 9x13 pan.
  2. Bake crust for 30 minutes or until lightly brown, then remove and let cool completely.
  3. In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped cream until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the pudding and milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Spread the chocolate pudding mixture over the cooled crust.
  6. Top the pudding layer with the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture, spreading evenly.
  7. Sprinkle remaining nuts (and chocolate curls if desired) on top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow layers to set.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my crust falling apart?

A: Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the pan before baking. The butter needs to bind the flour and nuts together, so don't skimp on mixing it thoroughly.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! This pie actually benefits from being made ahead. Prepare it the day before and refrigerate overnight - the layers will set perfectly and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Q: Why is my pudding layer runny?

A: Make sure you're using instant pudding (not cook-and-serve) and that you mix it with the milk for the full 2-3 minutes until it thickens properly before spreading on the crust. Also ensure the crust is completely cool before adding the pudding.

Tips and Techniques

Use real butter for the crust - it makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. For an extra special touch, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the crust for deeper, richer flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pecans: walnuts or chopped almonds
  • instant chocolate pudding: vanilla, butterscotch, or banana pudding
  • whipped cream: Cool Whip or whipped topping
  • butter: DO NOT use margarine

Equipment Needed

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer or whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Despite its name, Mississippi Mud Pie has murky origins - some say it was created in Mississippi, while others claim it originated in restaurants along the Mississippi River. What’s certain is that this rich, layered chocolate dessert became a Southern classic in the mid-20th century.