Southern Mud Pie

 Introduction

Southern Mud Pie is a rich, indulgent dessert made for serious chocolate lovers. This classic layered treat features a buttery graham cracker crust, a dense flourless chocolate cake center, a silky homemade chocolate pudding layer, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. Every bite is smooth, creamy, and deeply chocolatey, making it perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want an impressive make-ahead dessert.

 Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• 16 graham cracker sheets (about 2½ cups crumbs)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 tbsp granulated sugar

Flourless Chocolate Cake

• 6 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup water

• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 6 large eggs, separated

• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided

Chocolate Pudding

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1¼ cups milk (2% or whole)

• 1¼ cups heavy cream

• 4 large egg yolks

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Whipped Cream Topping

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• 3 tbsp granulated sugar

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.

3. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.

4. Bake for 9–11 minutes and let cool completely.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layer

1. Increase oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

2. Melt chocolate and butter together until smooth.

3. In another bowl, whisk water, cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla.

4. Beat egg yolks with ½ cup sugar until light and fluffy, then mix with the chocolate mixture.

5. Whip egg whites with remaining sugar until soft peaks form.

6. Gently fold egg whites into the batter.

7. Pour over the cooled crust and bake 40–45 minutes until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Pudding

1. In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt.

2. Gradually whisk in milk, cream, and egg yolks.

3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10–12 minutes).

4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, chopped chocolate, and vanilla.

5. Let pudding cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Spread the cooled pudding evenly over the cake layer.

2. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

1. Whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form.

2. Spread over the chilled pie.

3. Lightly dust with cocoa powder.

4. Remove springform sides, slice, and serve.

 Conclusion

Southern Mud Pie is the ultimate layered chocolate dessert — rich, creamy, and irresistibly decadent. Though it takes a little time to prepare, each step is simple, and the make-ahead nature makes it perfect for entertaining. Once chilled and topped with whipped cream, this classic Southern favorite delivers an unforgettable chocolate experience in every slice.