Mississippi Mud Pie – Decadent Layers of Chocolate Dreaminess, Made Lighter

Mississippi Mud Pie is a chocolate lover’s fantasy—rich, layered, and full of indulgent textures from a cookie crust to creamy pudding to a pillowy whipped topping. This lightened version keeps all the gooey, fudgy glory of the original while using smart ingredient swaps to make it more balanced and guilt-free. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this pie brings all the wow without the overload.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep Chocolate Flavor – Layers of rich cocoa and pudding deliver ultimate satisfaction.
Creamy & Crunchy – A perfect texture combo from crisp crust to velvety filling.
Cool & Refreshing – Served chilled, it’s an ideal make-ahead dessert for warm days.
Smartly Made – Lower in sugar and fat, but every bite still tastes like the real deal.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsp light butter, melted
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or sweetener

For the chocolate filling:

• 1 package (1.4 oz) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix
• 1¾ cups cold low-fat milk
• ¼ cup light cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the topping:

• 1 cup light whipped topping (such as a light frozen whipped topping, thawed)
• Optional: mini chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix chocolate graham crumbs, melted butter, and sweetener. Press mixture firmly into an 8×8-inch baking dish or pie pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in cocoa powder and vanilla. Fold in the pudding mixture until fully combined and creamy.

3. Assemble the Pie
Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

4. Add the Topping
Gently spread whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or shavings if using.

5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set. Slice and serve chilled.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Calories: 160
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

Chill Time Is Key – For neat slices and firm layers, give the pie plenty of time to set.
Add Garnish at the End – Chocolate shavings or chips add flair, but keep them minimal for a lighter treat.
Swap Crust If Needed – Use light Oreo-style crumbs or almond flour for variation.

Why This Recipe Works

By combining sugar-free pudding, light cream cheese, and a buttery cocoa crust, this Mississippi Mud Pie delivers on richness without overloading on calories. Each layer adds texture and taste, while the airy topping keeps things balanced. It’s every bit the dessert classic—with a fresher, lighter approach.

This lighter Mississippi Mud Pie proves that you don’t have to give up bold chocolate flavor or creamy texture to enjoy a satisfying dessert. With layers that melt in your mouth and a look that impresses, it’s the perfect ending to any meal—and one you’ll feel good about serving again and again.