This recipe is quick to make, requires no oven, and is loved by all ages. It’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, holidays, or just when you want something sweet and simple. The combination of soft cream layers and crunchy cookie crumbs makes every bite rich and satisfying. Plus, it can be made ahead and easily customized to suit your occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Oreo cookies, crushed
Cream cheese, softened
Butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Gummy worms (optional, for decoration)
Directions
Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and smashing with a rolling pin. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until combined.
Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed Oreos, followed by the full cream filling, then top with the remaining crushed Oreos.
For a fun touch, press a few gummy worms into the top layer of “dirt.”
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the dessert set.
Serve chilled with a spoon or in individual cups if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 10–12 people. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight) Total time: About 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer, more chocolatey version.
Layer the dessert in individual clear cups or mason jars for parties.
Add layers of sliced bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist.
Swap regular Oreos for flavored versions like mint or golden Oreos.
Use homemade whipped cream if you prefer not to use whipped topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover dirt cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. This dessert should not be frozen, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping can become watery when thawed. No reheating is required—this dessert is meant to be served chilled.
FAQs
Can I make Oreo Dirt Cake ahead of time?
Yes, in fact, it tastes even better when made a day in advance. It gives the flavors time to blend and the texture to set properly.
Do I need to remove the cream from the Oreo cookies?
No, use the entire Oreo including the cream filling. It adds flavor and helps create the right texture in the crumb layers.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely cooled and thickened before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
Is Oreo Dirt Cake gluten-free?
Not unless you use gluten-free sandwich cookies and confirm that all other ingredients (like pudding mix and whipped topping) are gluten-free.
Can I use chocolate pudding instead?
Absolutely. Chocolate pudding makes a more traditional “dirt” color and adds extra chocolate flavor.
How do I crush Oreos without a food processor?
Place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or heavy object until finely crumbled.
Can I freeze Oreo Dirt Cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream and pudding can break down when thawed, becoming watery or grainy.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
You can use homemade whipped cream. Beat cold heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it in place of Cool Whip.
How long does it need to chill before serving?
At least 4 hours is ideal, but overnight chilling yields the best texture and flavor.
Can I serve this in individual cups?
Yes, layering the dessert in cups or jars makes it perfect for parties and easy to serve.
Conclusion
Oreo Dirt Cake is a crowd-pleasing, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of creamy filling and crushed cookies, it delivers both flavor and fun in every bite. Whether you serve it in a big dish or individual portions, this treat will surely become a family favorite for years to come.
Oreo Dirt Cake is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert made with layers of crushed Oreo cookies and creamy pudding mixture. Topped with gummy worms for a playful touch, it’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or fun family treats.
Ingredients
1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
3 1/2 cups cold milk
12 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Gummy worms (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
Crush Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and smashing with a rolling pin. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Fold whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed Oreos on the bottom.
Spoon the full cream mixture over the Oreo layer and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining crushed Oreos to create a “dirt” layer.
Press gummy worms into the top for decoration if desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
Use chocolate pudding for a deeper chocolate flavor and color.Layer in individual cups or jars for easy serving at parties.Add fresh fruit like bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist.Homemade whipped cream can be used instead of Cool Whip.Best made a day ahead for ideal texture and flavor blending.
