Dirt Cake Recipe
This Easy No-Bake Dirt Cake Recipe is a fun-for-kids, crowd-pleasing dessert combining creamy chocolate pudding, crushed Oreo 'dirt,' and gummy worms for a whimsical twist—perfect for potlucks, parties, and carefree afternoons.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened (Philadelphia recommended)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature (Land O’Lakes)
- 3.9 oz instant chocolate pudding mix (Kraft or Jell-O)
- 2 cups cold milk (whole for creaminess; skim works too)
- 8 oz frozen whipped topping thawed (Cool Whip) or 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 20–24 Oreo cookies finely crushed (about 2 cups; gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup gummy worms (optional, for Fun for Kids flair)
- Pinch salt (balances sweetness)
- Optional garnish mini chocolate chips or sprinkles
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth (2–3 minutes) using a hand mixer. Scrape the sides so no lumps remain.
- Sprinkle the chocolate pudding mix over the cream cheese, then pour in the cold milk. Beat on medium speed until it thickens and coats the whisk, about 1 minute.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip (or Greek yogurt) until the mixture is uniform—this keeps it light and airy.
- Spoon half the pudding mixture into a 9x9" glass dish. Top with a thick layer of crushed Oreos—press gently so it sticks.
- Add the remaining pudding, then finish with the last of the Oreo crumbs. Scatter gummy worms on top, tucking some around the edges for peek-a-boo effect.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (4–6 hours is even better). This rest time ensures firm, scoopable layers.
Notes
You know what? My first batch was a bit runny—lesson learned: thaw whipped topping fully, then use it promptly. If your filling seems loose, whisk in a tablespoon of powdered sugar to thicken. For a cute twist, serve in individual mason jars; guests love the portable, Instagram-worthy look. And while it’s marketed as a “kids” dessert, grown-ups swoon over that playful nostalgia too.
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