If you’re hunting for the best possum pie, Arkansas is the only place to be. This dessert is a true Arkansas treasure, and it’s almost impossible to find outside the state lines. So what is it, and why is it so beloved?
Well, despite the funny name, there’s no actual possum in it. Instead, it’s a legendary layered dessert pie. It usually has a pecan crust, a sweet cream cheese layer, a rich chocolate pudding layer, and a big cloud of whipped cream on top.
Possum pie is creamy, crunchy, not too sweet, and completely comforting. It’s the kind of dessert your grandma would make if she were an award-winning pastry chef. For a new generation of food lovers, finding the best version is a delicious Arkansas adventure. Here are the five must-try spots.
Stoby’s (Conway & Russellville)
Let’s start with the classic. Stoby’s is widely regarded as the spiritual home of Possum Pie in Arkansas. People are loyal to their version, and for good reason. It has perfect structural integrity, which is a real feat for a pie with so many creamy layers.
The dessert begins with a signature pecan and flour shortbread crust. Then comes a dense layer of sweetened cream cheese, followed by a thick and silky chocolate custard. It’s all finished with real whipped cream and more crushed pecans.
Beyond the pie, Stoby’s is a local legend for its famous cheese dip. The Conway location is designed to look like an old train station, complete with an actual caboose. It’s a quintessential Arkansas diner, and the Possum Pie is the undisputed star.
Sassy’s Red House (Fayetteville)
For those with a massive appetite, Sassy’s Red House in Fayetteville is your spot. They serve the state’s largest slice of Possum Pie.
Now, Sassy’s is mainly a barbecue powerhouse, but they treat dessert with serious respect. Their version has a thick, buttery pecan crust. This crust gives a salty-sweet crunch against the velvety fillings. Their chocolate layer is also darker and richer than most, giving it a more sophisticated flavor.
The unique point at Sassy’s Red is the atmosphere. It’s a vibrant, sports-centric place and a premier spot for Razorback fans. Eating a giant slice of pie on their big patio after some amazing barbecue is a true local rite of passage. It’s the best possum pie, Arkansas style, for when you’re really, really hungry.
Old South Restaurant (Russellville)
Stepping into the Old South Restaurant is like stepping back in time to 1947. This historic diner is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was once a favorite stop for legends like Elvis Presley.
Their Possum Pie is a masterclass in tradition. They stick to a heritage recipe that uses a classic “cook-and-serve” chocolate pudding layer. It’s praised for its balance, because it’s not overly sweet but deeply comforting.
The real unique attribute here is the ambiance. The neon signs and original details make you feel like you’re in a movie. When you eat a slice here, you are tasting history. It’s one of the few places where you can experience the pie exactly as it was made decades ago.
Oark General Store (Oark)
This spot is all about the journey. The Oark General Store is deep in the Ozark National Forest. It has been open since 1890, making it the oldest business in Arkansas. Their Possum Pie is the ultimate reward for driving those winding mountain roads.
The pie is handmade daily with a focus on rustic, “mountain-style” portions. What makes it unique is the crust. It feels more like a thick, homemade cookie than a flaky pastry. Because of the remote location, the Oark store is a cult destination for motorcyclists and hikers.
Sitting on their wooden porch, eating pie, and looking out at the Mulberry River valley is an unforgettable experience. The pie is amazing, and the scenery makes it even better.
Blue Cake Honey Pies at Bowman (Little Rock)
For a modern, artisanal take, visit Blue Cake Honey Pies in Little Rock. This is the refined choice. Their Possum Pie uses premium ingredients, like high-grade cocoa and local pecans. The sweetness is meticulously balanced, so it is never cloying.
A very unique feature here is the “Pie Sampler.” This lets you try a slice of Possum Pie alongside other Southern favorites, such as Coconut Cream. The bakery is sleek and contemporary. It’s the perfect place to pick up a whole pie for a holiday or a special event.
This spot proves that tradition can be updated for a new generation, without losing its soul. It’s a top contender for the best possum pie Arkansas can offer to today’s food lovers.
Try the Possum Pie in Arkansas Today!
So, there you have it. From the historic diner to the mountain hideaway to the modern bakery, Arkansas holds the secret to this incredible dessert. Each spot offers its own unique twist on the classic. Trying them all is not just about eating pie. It’s about experiencing the heart and history of the state. You have to try them, because you simply cannot get this treat anywhere else. Start your delicious tour, and find your own personal favorite for the best possum pie, Arkansas.