Mississippi Mud Pie – A Lighter Take on a Decadent Classic

Mississippi Mud Pie is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers—layers of silky, gooey, creamy, and crunchy textures all wrapped into one unforgettable treat. This lightened-up version keeps the rich chocolate flavor and indulgent spirit, but with smart ingredient swaps that make it easier to enjoy without overdoing it. Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert that won’t weigh you down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Layered Chocolate Bliss: Silky pudding, crunchy crust, and creamy topping.
Lighter Ingredients, Same Rich Flavor: Smart swaps without sacrificing taste.
No-Bake Simplicity: Chill and serve—no oven needed.
Perfect for Sharing: A crowd-pleasing dessert everyone will love.

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups reduced-fat graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate wafer crumbs)
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tbsp light butter, melted

Filling:

  • 1 box (1 oz) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 1 ½ cups skim milk
  • ½ cup light whipped topping

Topping:

  • 1 cup light whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip Free)
  • 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Place in the fridge while preparing the filling.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Layer
In a bowl, whisk together chocolate pudding mix and skim milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Fold in ½ cup whipped topping for a creamier texture.

3. Assemble the Pie
Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the chilled crust. Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth out.

4. Add Optional Garnishes
Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dark chocolate shavings if desired.

5. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

6. Serve
Cut into 12 squares. Serve chilled and enjoy every layered bite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 140
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

  • Let It Chill Completely: The longer it chills, the cleaner the layers and better the texture.
  • Make It Ahead: This dessert gets even better the next day.
  • Customize Your Crunch: Use chocolate graham crackers or oat-based crusts for variety.
  • Serve with Spoons or Forks: It’s rich, soft, and creamy—like a pie and pudding hybrid!

Why This Recipe Works

By keeping the flavors bold but the ingredients balanced, this recipe offers the best of both worlds: comfort and control. Every bite has that signature “mud pie” richness—from the deep cocoa crust to the silky chocolate filling—made with lighter ingredients so you can indulge mindfully.

Mississippi Mud Pie doesn’t have to be over-the-top to be unforgettable. This lightened version delivers all the layers of texture and chocolate goodness you crave, with less fuss and more balance. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself at home, this dessert is guaranteed to bring joy—without going overboard.

Mississippi Mud Pie – A Lighter Take on a Decadent Classic

Servings

12

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time
Calories

140

kcal
Total time

4

hours 

20

minutes

Mississippi Mud Pie is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers—layers of silky, gooey, creamy, and crunchy textures all wrapped into one unforgettable treat. This lightened-up version keeps the rich chocolate flavor and indulgent spirit, but with smart ingredient swaps that make it easier to enjoy without overdoing it. Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert that won’t weigh you down.

Ingredients

  • Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups reduced-fat graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate wafer crumbs)

  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 3 tbsp light butter, melted

  • Filling:

  • 1 box (1 oz) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix

  • 1 ½ cups skim milk

  • ½ cup light whipped topping

  • Topping:

  • 1 cup light whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip Free)

  • 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate (optional)

  • 1 tbsp chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  • Make the Crust
    In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Place in the fridge while preparing the filling.
  • Prepare the Chocolate Layer
    In a bowl, whisk together chocolate pudding mix and skim milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Fold in ½ cup whipped topping for a creamier texture.
  • Assemble the Pie
    Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the chilled crust. Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth out.
  • Add Optional Garnishes
    Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dark chocolate shavings if desired.
  • Chill
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  • Serve
    Cut into 12 squares. Serve chilled and enjoy every layered bite.Let It Chill Completely: The longer it chills, the cleaner the layers and better the texture.
    Make It Ahead: This dessert gets even better the next day.
    Customize Your Crunch: Use chocolate graham crackers or oat-based crusts for variety.
    Serve with Spoons or Forks: It’s rich, soft, and creamy—like a pie and pudding hybrid!

Notes

  • Let It Chill Completely: The longer it chills, the cleaner the layers and better the texture.
    Make It Ahead: This dessert gets even better the next day.
    Customize Your Crunch: Use chocolate graham crackers or oat-based crusts for variety.
    Serve with Spoons or Forks: It’s rich, soft, and creamy—like a pie and pudding hybrid!

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