Mississippi Mud Pie Clara quick dinners

Mississippi Mud Pie is a rich, decadent chocolate dessert layered with a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, a fudgy brownie or flourless chocolate cake base, creamy chocolate pudding or mousse, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. Named after the muddy banks of the Mississippi River, this indulgent pie is a chocolate lover’s dream and a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Multiple textures: crunchy, fudgy, creamy, and airy
• Deep, rich chocolate flavor in every layer
• Perfect for parties, holidays, or celebrations
• Can be made ahead of time
• Easily customized to include your favorite chocolate components
• No fancy equipment required
• Freezes well for future treats
• Great alternative to traditional cakes or pies
• Impressive presentation, minimal effort
• Guaranteed to satisfy chocolate cravings

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• Chocolate wafer cookies or Oreos
• Unsalted butter, melted

For the Fudge or Brownie Layer:

• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

For the Chocolate Pudding or Mousse Layer:

• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Egg yolks
• Cornstarch
• Bittersweet chocolate
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

• Chocolate shavings
• Crushed cookies
• Cocoa powder
• Toasted nuts

directions

1. Make the crust:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush cookies into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.
2. Make the brownie layer:
   In a saucepan, melt butter and chopped chocolate. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in flour and salt. Pour into the cooled crust. Bake for 2025 minutes, until set but fudgy. Cool completely.
3. Make the pudding layer:
   In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add milk, cream, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate and vanilla. Cool slightly, then pour over the cooled brownie layer. Chill for at least 2 hours.
4. Make the whipped cream:
   Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread over the chilled pudding layer.
5. Garnish and serve:
   Top with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts if desired. Serve chilled.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1012 slices
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Chill Time: 23 hours
Total Time: About 3.54 hours

Variations

• Mousse instead of pudding: Use a chocolate mousse layer for an airy texture
• Add coffee: A dash of espresso powder intensifies the chocolate flavor
• Nut crust: Use crushed pecans or walnuts mixed with cookie crumbs
• Boozy twist: Add a splash of bourbon or Kahlúa to the pudding layer
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cookies and flour alternatives

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. This dessert is best served cold—no reheating required.

FAQs

What is Mississippi Mud Pie made of?

It’s typically made of a chocolate cookie crust, a brownie or cake base, chocolate pudding or mousse, and whipped cream topping.

Do I have to bake it?

Yes, the brownie layer is baked, but other versions may use no-bake components like chocolate ganache or mousse.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a day ahead and chilled overnight.

Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes, you can use boxed mix for the brownie layer to save time.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Bake the crust before adding other layers to keep it crisp.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze well-wrapped slices and thaw in the fridge when ready to eat.

What’s the best type of chocolate to use?

Use high-quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate for the best flavor.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, fold toasted pecans or walnuts into the brownie layer for added crunch.

Do I need to use a pie dish?

A springform pan or tart pan with a removable bottom also works well.

How long does it take to set?

At least 23 hours of chilling time is recommended before serving.

Conclusion

Mississippi Mud Pie is the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. With its rich layers and contrasting textures, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply craving something decadent, this classic Southern dessert is guaranteed to be a hit.

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