Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe
If you have a craving for a dessert that truly captures the essence of rich, indulgent chocolate goodness, this Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe is a must-try. It’s a luscious layered masterpiece combining a crunchy Oreo crust, a fudgy brownie layer, creamy chocolate mousse, and a delightfully crumbly topping. Every bite is a symphony of textures and deep chocolate flavor that makes this dessert a standout at any gathering or a perfect treat for cozy nights in. Prepare to fall in love with a pie that brings joy with every forkful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe is surprisingly straightforward, but each component plays a crucial role in building layers of rich flavor and delightful texture. From the crunchy Oreo crust to the silky chocolate mousse, every ingredient has a purpose that brings this pie to life.
- Oreo cookies (16 for crust, 6 for topping): Provide a crisp, chocolaty base and crumbly topping that’s iconic to this pie.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances sweetness in the crust, ensuring it’s not too bitter.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons melted for crust, 3 tablespoons for brownie, 2 tablespoons melted for topping): Adds richness and helps bind ingredients while delivering a tender texture.
- Bittersweet chocolate (4 ounces, finely chopped): Creates a deep, intense chocolate flavor in the brownie layer.
- Vegetable oil (3 tablespoons): Keeps the brownie moist and fudgy.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 ½ tablespoons for brownie, plus 1 tablespoon and 2 tablespoons for topping and mousse): Boosts chocolate intensity and adds a slight bitterness to balance sweetness.
- Dark brown sugar (⅔ cup, firmly packed): Infuses a warm, molasses note into the brownie.
- Large eggs (2, room temperature): Provide structure and richness for the brownie.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the chocolate flavors with a subtle aromatic warmth.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon and ⅛ teaspoon for different layers, plus a pinch for mousse): Amplifies sweetness and balances richness.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Gives the brownie just enough structure without overpowering fudginess.
- Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons for topping, 2 tablespoons for mousse): Sweetens the crumb topping and lightens the mousse.
- Milk chocolate (6 ounces, chopped fine): Smooths out the mousse with creamy chocolate goodness.
- Heavy cream (1 cup, very cold, divided): Whipped into different consistencies to add creaminess and loft to the mousse.
How to Make Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Using a food processor, crush 16 Oreo cookies into fine crumbs—that will make a wonderfully textured base. Combine those crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter, then press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, taking care to push some up the sides. Baking it for 15 minutes unlocks that rich, toasty aroma and ensures the crust sets perfectly crisp. Once done, let it cool completely on a wire rack, ready to hold all the incredible layers to come.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Layer
Now for the lush fudgy heart of our pie. Gently melt bittersweet chocolate, butter, vegetable oil, and cocoa powder in the microwave at half power, stirring frequently to get a silky smooth mix. Meanwhile, whisk dark brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth and glossy. Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the eggs and sugar, then fold in the flour just until blended—no overmixing here! Pour this brownie batter over your cooled Oreo crust, and bake again at 325°F for approximately 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. Cooling first on a rack and then chilling in the fridge ensures it firms up beautifully for layering.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
A key part of the Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe is that delightfully crumbly topping. Pulse 6 Oreos into coarse crumbs in your food processor. Blend in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly mixed. Drizzle melted butter in and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand—this texture means it will bake into a crunchy, crumby layer. Spread it evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for about 10 minutes until fragrant and slightly crisp. Cool it completely before topping the pie.
Step 4: Prepare the Mousse
For the final, creamy layer, melt milk chocolate carefully until smooth and let it cool to about 85°F (29°C). Whip half the heavy cream until soft peaks form, chilling it in the fridge while you whisk the other half together with cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until thickened. Fold this cocoa-infused cream into the melted chocolate first, then gently incorporate the whipped cream to achieve a light and fluffy mousse. Spread this luscious mousse evenly over the chilled brownie layer, and then sprinkle your cooled cookie crumble topping on generously.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Refrigerate your Mississippi Mud Pie for at least 4 hours. This chilling period allows all those flavors to meld and the mousse to set up perfectly, preparing the pie for the grand taste experience you’re about to enjoy.
How to Serve Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mississippi Mud Pie, consider garnishing with a few extra Oreo cookie halves around the edges or a light dusting of cocoa powder and powdered sugar right before serving. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or even a drizzle of caramel sauce provides a luscious complementary flavor and a visually inviting finish.
Side Dishes
This chocolate-heavy pie pairs wonderfully with brighter, contrasting sides like fresh berries or a small scoop of tart lemon sorbet. These options help balance the richness and refresh the palate after each indulgent bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the pie into individual portions and serve them on small dessert plates adorned with a mint leaf or edible flowers. You could also create mini Mississippi Mud Pie trifles in glasses by layering pie crumbs, brownie chunks, and mousse topped with the crumb topping—perfect for parties or when you want a personal serving option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Mississippi Mud Pie keeps really well when tightly covered and refrigerated. Store it in an airtight container or cover the pie plate with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and prevent the mousse from absorbing any fridge odors. Enjoy leftovers within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie if you want to prepare it well in advance. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When frozen properly, it can last up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the delicate mousse texture.
Reheating
Because the Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe is best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. If you prefer softer textures, you can let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving as this could ruin the mousse and crumble topping.
FAQs
Can I use other cookies instead of Oreos for the crust?
Absolutely! While Oreos provide a classic, rich flavor and texture, you can experiment with chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies. Just be mindful of how their flavor and texture will complement the other layers.
Is there a way to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the Oreos and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives. Many gluten-free chocolate cookies and gluten-free flour blends work well, but be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free too.
Can I prepare any part of this pie ahead of time?
Definitely. The crust and brownie layer can be made a day ahead and chilled. The mousse and crumb topping can also be prepared in advance and stored separately. Assemble the pie on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
What if I don’t have a microwave to melt the chocolate?
No problem! Use a double boiler method by placing a heat-safe bowl over simmering water and stirring the chocolate until melted and smooth. This method works beautifully and prevents the chocolate from overheating.
How do I know when the brownie layer is perfectly baked?
You want the edges to be set firmly, while the center still has a little wobble. When you insert a toothpick, it should come out with a thin coating of batter but not fully clean—that fudgy texture is what makes this layer so special.
Final Thoughts
This Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe is truly a celebration of all things chocolate, layered with textures that keep every bite exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, family, or indulging solo, it’s a dessert that feels both decadent and comforting. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this pie your new favorite—once you do, you’ll understand why it holds such a beloved place in the hearts of chocolate lovers everywhere.
Print
Mississippi Mud Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Mississippi Mud Pie is a decadent layered dessert featuring an Oreo cookie crust, rich fudgy brownie layer, and a smooth chocolate mousse topped with a crispy Oreo crumble. It combines multiple textures and intense chocolate flavor in one impressive pie, perfect for special occasions or chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Oreo Crust
- 16 Oreo cookies
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Brownie Layer
- 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅔ cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Topping Crumble
- 6 Oreo cookies
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Chocolate Mousse
- 6 ounces milk chocolate, chopped fine
- 1 cup heavy cream, very cold (divided into ½ cup and ½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a food processor, pulse 16 Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. Add 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 4 tablespoons melted butter, then pulse until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 15 minutes until fragrant, then cool on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 4 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, and 1 ½ tablespoons cocoa powder. Microwave at 50% power, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth (about 1 minute 30 seconds). In another bowl, whisk together ⅔ cup dark brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon salt until smooth. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and whisk until combined. Stir in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour until just incorporated. Pour the batter into the cooled Oreo crust. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 15 minutes, until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a thin coating of batter. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely chilled.
- Prepare the Topping: In a food processor, pulse 6 Oreo cookies into coarse crumbs. Add 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, and ⅛ teaspoon salt, then pulse to combine. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Spread the crumb mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes until fragrant. Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Mousse: Melt 6 ounces milk chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power, stirring frequently, until smooth. Let cool until the chocolate reaches about 85°F (29°C). In a chilled mixing bowl, whisk ½ cup heavy cream until soft peaks form, then refrigerate. In another bowl, whisk the remaining ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until thickened. Fold the cocoa cream mixture gently into the melted chocolate until combined, then fold in the whipped cream carefully until no streaks remain. Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the chilled brownie layer.
- Assemble and Chill: Sprinkle the cooled cookie crumble topping evenly over the mousse layer. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours until fully set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help create a smooth brownie batter.
- Melting chocolate at 50% power and stirring frequently prevents burning and allows for smooth melting.
- Chilling the pie for several hours improves the texture and flavor development.
- Use a pie plate with 9-inch diameter for best results and proper layering.
- To speed chilling, place pie in the coldest part of your refrigerator or briefly freeze before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American