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Classic dirt cake recipe with crushed Oreo cookie crumbs, creamy vanilla pudding filling, Cool Whip, and gummy worms on top

Dirt Cake Recipe - A Delicious Dessert

A no-bake layered dessert made with crushed Oreos, a cream cheese and chocolate pudding filling, and whipped topping. Easy to assemble, feeds a crowd, and always a hit.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14.3 oz Oreo cookies 1 standard package, crushed into crumbs
  • 8 oz cream cheese fully softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 packages instant chocolate pudding mix 3.4 oz each
  • 3 cups whole milk cold
  • 12 oz whipped topping thawed, such as Cool Whip
  • 1 handful gummy worms optional, for topping

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish or trifle bowl
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Food processor or zip-lock bag

Method
 

  1. Crush Oreos into fine crumbs and set aside.
  2. Whisk pudding mix with cold milk 2 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes to thicken.
  3. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy.
  4. Fold thickened pudding into cream cheese mixture until combined.
  5. Fold in whipped topping gently in two additions to keep it light.
  6. Layer half the Oreo crumbs in dish, spread filling over top, then cover with remaining crumbs.
  7. Refrigerate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Add gummy worms before serving.

Notes

  • Cream cheese must be fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Fold, do not stir, the whipped topping to keep the filling light.
  • Overnight refrigeration gives the best texture and set layers.
  • Add gummy worms just before serving, not before chilling.