There’s something truly irresistible about a dessert that combines rich chocolate, fudgy texture, and creamy layers all in one. The Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe is exactly that—a rich, multi-textured delight that’ll have everyone asking for seconds when you pull it from the fridge.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Why They Work
- Make It Your Way
- Step-by-Step: How I Make Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe
- Top Tip
- How to Serve Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Final Thoughts
- Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I remember the first time I made this pie: the layers of crunchy cookie crust, fudgy brownie, creamy chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream just blew me away. It’s more than a dessert—it's a celebration of chocolate in every bite, and you’re going to love how easy it comes together.
- Layered Chocolate Goodness: Combining different textures and flavors makes every forkful exciting.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy stuff—just pantry staples and a bit of love.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This pie chills in the fridge, so you can prep ahead and wow guests later.
- Impress Without Stress: It looks fancy, but it’s totally doable even on a busy weeknight.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each part of this pie plays a special role, and picking quality ingredients makes all the difference. From crunchy crushed cookies to smooth pudding, here’s why these ingredients come together so beautifully.
- Chocolate sandwich cookies: These are the base, giving the crust a sturdy crunch and rich cocoa flavor—Oreos work perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Butter binds the crust and brownie layer, adding a silky richness that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie and pudding layers without overpowering.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure in the brownie and creaminess in the pudding.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to every chocolatey layer.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The star of the show for rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar.
- All-purpose flour: Lightly held together the brownie for fudgy texture.
- Salt and baking powder: Salt enhances flavor; baking powder helps the brownie just rise enough.
- Whole milk: Creamy base for the pudding, giving it that luscious mouthfeel.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the pudding smoothly without graininess.
- Egg yolks: For extra richness in the pudding layer.
- Semi-sweet chocolate: Melted into the pudding for a glossy, decadent layer.
- Heavy cream, powdered sugar: Whipped to fluffy perfection, it tops the pie with light sweetness.
- Chocolate shavings: For garnish—adds texture, aroma, and pretty presentation.
Make It Your Way
I enjoy making this Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe just as it is, but I’ve found it’s super flexible—and sometimes I like to switch up the chocolate levels or add a little crunch.
- Variation: Once, I swapped semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks in the pudding—loved the extra bittersweet kick.
- Dairy-Free Version: You can substitute coconut milk for whole milk and use dairy-free cream to whip if you want a non-dairy pie.
- Nutty Upgrade: Adding chopped toasted pecans to the crust or as a sprinkle on top adds wonderful texture and southern flare.
- Layer Swap: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought brownie mix for the fudgy layer, just bake it right in the pie plate before proceeding.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe
Step 1: Press and Bake Your Cookie Crust
This is where your base starts. I always use a food processor to crush the chocolate sandwich cookies until they’re fine crumbs—avoids big chunks messing with the texture. Then I mix in melted unsalted butter until it looks like wet sand, and press it firmly into the bottom of my 9-inch pie dish. Pop it in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes just to help it set and add a slight toastiness.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Fudgy Brownie Layer
Mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder gently just until combined. Pour this batter right over your cooled cookie crust and spread evenly. Bake again at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes—don’t overbake! The brownie should be set but still fudgy in the center. Let it cool completely before moving on.
Step 3: Make That Silky Chocolate Pudding Layer
Now for the silky pudding—the pièce de résistance. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, salt, and egg yolks. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and just begins to boil—it’s key to keep whisking here to avoid lumps. Take it off the heat and stir in the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate and vanilla extract until melted smooth. Pour this luscious pudding over the cooled brownie layer. Then pop the whole pie in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours until set.
Step 4: Whip the Cream and Crown Your Pie
Right before serving, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. I like to either spread it on with a spatula or pipe it with a large star tip for a pretty finish. Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top for that final flourish. This whipped cream adds just the right lightness to balance the rich chocolate layers beneath.
Top Tip
After making this pie a few times, I’ve picked up some little tricks that really make a difference between “good” and “wow.” Don’t skip these if you want perfect layers and flawless slices.
- Use a food processor: It ensures your cookie crust is finely crushed, which helps it bind well and not crumble apart.
- Cool layers fully: Be patient and let each layer cool before adding the next to keep clean, distinct layers that don’t bleed into each other.
- Constant whisking for pudding: Keeps it super smooth—no lumps and no scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- Hot knife for slicing: Dip your knife in hot water, wipe dry, and slice. It gives clean slices without messy edges.
How to Serve Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a big fan of keeping things simple with chocolate shavings and a light dusting of cocoa powder. Sometimes, I add chopped toasted pecans on top for that unexpected crunch that makes your mouth happy. Fresh raspberries on the side work well too—the tartness pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.
Side Dishes
I love serving this pie after a casual dinner with friends, paired with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to go extra decadent. Light fruit salads or citrusy sorbets cut through the richness and balance the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For birthdays or holidays, I’ve piped whipped cream rosettes around the edges and decorated with chocolate curls and edible gold leaf to make it festive. You could also serve individual mini pies in ramekins to impress guests personally. Layering it in clear glasses as a trifle is another fun twist that lets the layers shine visually.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) keep beautifully covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container to prevent the whipped cream from drying out.
Freezing
I’ve frozen this pie without the whipped cream topping (which doesn’t hold up well) by wrapping it tightly in plastic and foil. It freezes well for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then whip fresh cream just before serving.
Reheating
This pie is best enjoyed cold, so I don’t recommend reheating. Instead, let it thaw gently in the fridge if frozen, then enjoy chilled. The texture is just right that way.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! In fact, chilling it for several hours or overnight allows the pudding layer to set and flavors to meld, making it even better the next day.
Dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice through the pie. Repeat between each slice to prevent sticking and messy edges.
Yes, if you’re short on time, a box brownie mix can be substituted for the fudgy brownie layer. Just bake it directly in the pie plate over the cookie crust and continue with the pudding and topping layers.
You can replace whole milk with coconut or almond milk, and use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream alternative for the topping to make this pie dairy-free. The texture might vary slightly but the chocolate layers still shine.
Final Thoughts
Making this Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe truly feels like a little chocolate celebration every time. I hope you love making it as much as I do because it’s just perfect for sharing or anytime you want to treat yourself. Trust me, the layers of chocolatey goodness with that fluffy whipped cream top will quickly make this a favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Mississippi Mud Pie with Chocolate Brownie Layer Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Mississippi Mud Pie featuring a chocolate cookie crust, fudgy brownie layer, creamy chocolate pudding, and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a rich and layered dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Crust:
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos, crushed)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Fudgy Brownie Layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Cookie Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter in a bowl until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
- Prepare the Fudgy Brownie Layer: In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until fully combined. Spread this brownie batter evenly over the cookie crust. Transfer the pie dish to the oven and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Let it cool completely before proceeding.
- Make the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together whole milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and egg yolks. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and immediately add finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate and vanilla extract, stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Pour this pudding layer over the cooled brownie layer. Place in the refrigerator and chill for about 4 hours until set.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping: Using a mixer, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pudding layer. Garnish with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
- Serve: Keep the pie chilled until ready to serve. Cut into slices and enjoy this rich, multi-layered chocolate dessert.
Notes
- Use a food processor to crush the cookies finely for a firm crust.
- Allow each layer to cool completely before adding the next to prevent melting and ensure clean layers.
- Whisk the pudding constantly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Chill the pie for at least 4 hours to help the pudding set and make slicing easier.
- For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Leave a Reply