Mississippi Mud Pie

Chocolate Layered Pie with Oreo Crust, Brownie Base, Pudding, and Meringue

Indulge in this show-stopping Chocolate Layered Pie, a decadent dessert masterpiece featuring a crunchy Oreo crust, fudgy brownie base, creamy chocolate pudding, and fluffy homemade meringue. Every bite delivers an explosion of rich chocolate flavors and contrasting textures, making it the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers.

Why Chocolate Layered Pie?

This pie elevates classic chocolate desserts with multiple layers of indulgence. It’s a crowd-pleasing showpiece that’s perfect for special occasions, holidays, or anytime you crave something extraordinary. The combination of crisp crust, chewy brownie, silky pudding, and airy meringue creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

For the Oreo Crust

• 3 1/3 cups Oreo crumbs (from 35–40 cookies): For a crunchy, chocolatey base.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together.

For the Brownie Base

• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped: Provides deep chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 cup butter, cubed: Adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional): Enhances chocolate notes.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For aromatic depth.
• 2/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the batter.
• 3 large eggs: For structure and fluffiness.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps with rise.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: Intensifies chocolate taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors.

For the Chocolate Pudding

• 2 1/2 cups whole milk: Creates a creamy base.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness.
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder: For chocolate intensity.
• 2/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the pudding.
• 5 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the mixture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances taste.
• 4 egg yolks: For a silky texture.
• 8 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into the pudding.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Adds smoothness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor.

For the Meringue Topping

• 4 egg whites: Forms the fluffy base.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aroma.

Instructions

1. Make the Oreo Crust: Crush Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter until combined. Press firmly into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Freeze for 10 minutes, then bake at 325°F for 10 minutes. Let cool and set aside.
2. Bake the Brownie Base: Melt dark chocolate and butter together (microwave or double boiler). Stir in vanilla and optional espresso powder. In a separate bowl, whip eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Sift together flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt; fold into the egg mixture. Combine with the melted chocolate. Pour over the cooled crust and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until set but still fudgy. Chill for at least 3 hours.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding: In a bowl, whisk cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks. In a saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream until simmering. Gradually whisk the hot milk into the yolk mixture to temper. Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin formation, and chill for 3 hours.
4. Assemble the Pie: Spread the chilled pudding evenly over the brownie base in the springform pan. Chill for an additional 3 hours or overnight to set.
5. Make the Meringue Topping: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, whisk egg whites and sugar until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (about 3–5 minutes). Transfer to a mixer and whip on high speed until glossy, stiff peaks form. Add vanilla and whip briefly to incorporate. Dollop or pipe the meringue generously over the set pudding layer.
6. Slice and Serve: Remove the springform ring carefully. Slice the pie and serve this chocolate masterpiece for maximum enjoyment.

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Layered Pie

• Chill Thoroughly: Each layer needs proper chilling to set and maintain structure when slicing.
• Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor depth in the brownie and pudding.
• Meringue Stability: Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved in the egg whites for a stable, glossy meringue that won’t weep.
• Make-Ahead: This pie is ideal for preparing in stages over 1–2 days, as chilling enhances the flavors.

FAQs

Can I Prepare This Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, assemble the crust, brownie, and pudding up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Add the meringue topping just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I Freeze the Pie?

Freeze the pie (without meringue) for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add fresh meringue before serving.

What Can I Serve with This Pie?

Pair as a decadent dessert with lighter starters like the Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread or Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce. For a sweet brunch, serve alongside the Best Banana Bread Cookies or Winter Window Fruit Trifle.

Can I Use Different Chocolate?

Yes, substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter profile or bittersweet for deeper intensity. Adjust sugar accordingly if needed.

What If I Don’t Have a Springform Pan?

Use a deep 9-inch pie dish, but note that slicing may be trickier without the removable sides.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Layered Pie is a true dessert masterpiece, blending crunchy Oreo crust, fudgy brownie, creamy pudding, and fluffy meringue into an unforgettable chocolate experience. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying cravings, this pie is worth every layer. Bake it up and enjoy the chocolatey bliss!