Creamy Possum Pie Recipe for Southern Dessert Lovers
Possum Pie is a beloved Southern dessert that has been delighting dinner tables for generations with its rich, creamy layers and irresistible sweetness.
Despite what the name might suggest, no unusual ingredients are involved, just pure comfort food magic that makes celebrations feel extra special.
This no-bake wonder has earned its place as a potluck favorite across the country, winning over anyone who takes that first heavenly bite.
The combination of textures and flavors creates something truly memorable, making it hard to stop at just one slice.
What makes it particularly appealing is how satisfying it feels without requiring hours in the kitchen or advanced baking skills.
Whether you need a showstopping finale for Sunday supper or something sweet to share with neighbors, this classic serves up every single time.
Go grab a fork and see why Southern cooks have been passing down this recipe for decades.
Why You Should Try Possum Pie
What Goes Into Possum Pie
Pie Crust:Filling Base:Meringue Topping:What Equipment Bakes Possum Pie
How to Layer and Chill Possum Pie
Blend the Filling
Grab a mixing bowl and toss in 1 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1/4 cup lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture looks totally smooth and creamy.
Fill the Crust
Pour that silky filling right into your pre-baked pie crust, making sure it spreads evenly across the bottom.
Prepare the Meringue Base
Grab a clean bowl and add 3 egg whites and 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar. Start whipping those whites until soft peaks begin to form – they should look like gentle, fluffy clouds.
Create the Meringue Topping
Slowly sprinkle in 1/2 cup sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites. Keep whipping until the meringue becomes super stiff and glossy – when you lift the beater, the peaks should stand straight up.
Top the Pie
Carefully spread that gorgeous meringue over the entire surface of your pie filling. Use a spatula to create some swoopy, decorative peaks if you want to make it look extra fancy.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the pie into an oven preheated to 350F. Bake for 10-15 minutes, watching closely until the meringue turns a beautiful golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes sure each slice looks picture-perfect.
Kitchen Know-How for Possum Pie
Possum Pie with Creative Flavor Spins
Classic Serving Suggestions for Possum Pie
Best Ways to Store Possum Pie
Possum Pie Reader Question Guide
What makes the meringue turn golden brown?
The egg whites and sugar, when baked at high temperatures, caramelize and create a beautiful golden color that adds both visual appeal and slightly crisp texture to your pie.
Can I use a different type of pie crust?
Absolutely – graham cracker or shortbread crusts work wonderfully with this creamy filling and will give your dessert a delightful alternative base.
How do I know when the meringue is perfectly whipped?
When your beaters create soft peaks that gently curl when lifted, and later form stiff peaks that stand straight up, your meringue is ready for spreading.
What happens if I overbeat the egg whites?
Overbeating causes the protein structure to break down, resulting in a grainy, watery meringue that won’t hold its shape during baking.
Does the lemon juice serve a specific purpose?
The lemon juice helps stabilize the egg whites and adds a subtle tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the condensed milk and sugar.
Can this dessert be made ahead of time?
Prepare the pie a day in advance, but add the meringue and bake right before serving to keep the topping fresh and perfectly textured.
Possum Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
Possum pie delivers a delightful Southern surprise that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Creamy layers of cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping create a delectable treat perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 egg whites
Supporting Ingredients:
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions
- Whisk 1 cup sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup cream cheese, ¼ cup lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a large bowl until your mixture transforms into a silky, uniform consistency.
- Transfer the creamy filling directly into your pre-baked pie crust, spreading evenly across the surface.
- Grab a clean mixing bowl and add 3 egg whites with ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar. Beat the whites using an electric mixer until soft, cloud-like peaks emerge.
- Sprinkle ½ cup sugar gradually into the egg white mixture while continuing to beat until your meringue stands in stiff, glossy peaks.
- Carefully spread the meringue over the pie filling, creating decorative swirls and peaks with your spatula.
- Position the pie in a preheated oven at 350F and bake for precisely 10-15 minutes, watching carefully until your meringue turns a delicate golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before slicing and serving your delectable dessert.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing when blending with other filling ingredients.
- Use an electric mixer to beat egg whites for consistent, stable meringue that holds its shape during baking.
- For a lighter version, swap full-fat cream cheese with reduced-fat or Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-calorie alternative.
- When spreading meringue, use gentle swooping motions with a spatula to create attractive peaks and ensure complete filling coverage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Pies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 271 kcal
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg

Madison Wyman
Recipe Developer & Food Storyteller
Expertise
Recipe Research and Adaptation, Food Writing and Cultural Storytelling, Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing, Dietary Adaptations (e.g., gluten-free, plant-based)
Education
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland Community College
Madison’s passion for flavor and culture ignited amidst the rich Southern cooking traditions of her upbringing, where cherished family recipes told delicious tales.
Armed with a Master’s in Food Systems and Society from Oregon Health & Science University and a Culinary Arts Certificate from Portland Community College, Madison truly excels at transforming rich, intricate flavors into dishes that are both approachable and heartfelt.
For her, cooking is a vibrant blend of science, art, and heritage – a powerful way to connect us to our roots and each other. Her recipes invite you to delve deeper, uncovering the fascinating stories woven into every ingredient.