Arkansas Possum Pie

At TNBD, we’re continuing our series featuring a recipe from a different U.S. state every day! Today’s stop is Arkansas, home of the legendary Possum Pie.

Possum Pie is a layered dessert that’s as visually striking as it is delicious. It typically starts with a buttery, crumbly crust made from graham crackers or vanilla wafers, followed by a rich cream cheese layer, a velvety chocolate pudding layer, and often topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. The combination of textures—from the crisp crust to the smooth, creamy filling—makes every bite a decadent experience. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a special treat at home.

The history of Possum Pie is as quirky as its name. Despite popular folklore suggesting it involves the small marsupial, the dessert contains no possum whatsoever. The name is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, possibly as a playful nod to “playing possum” or hiding the layers under the whipped topping. The dessert gained popularity in Arkansas in the 1980s, appearing in local cookbooks, church socials, and family kitchens. Over time, it became an iconic symbol of Southern baking ingenuity—a dessert that’s both comforting and show-stopping. Today, Possum Pie is celebrated as one of Arkansas’s unique culinary creations, representing the state’s love for layered, indulgent sweets.