Here’s a fun and easy recipe for Dirt Cake, a no-bake dessert with layers of creamy pudding and crushed cookies – perfect for parties or just a sweet treat!
Ingredients:
For the Dirt Layers:
- 1 family-sized package of Oreo cookies (about 36 cookies), crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
- 3 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 16 oz Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
Optional Garnishes:
- Gummy worms (for decoration)
- Chocolate shavings or crushed chocolate bars
Instructions:
Prepare the “Dirt”:
- Crush Oreos: Place the Oreos in a large zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin (or use a food processor for a finer texture). Set aside.
Make the Creamy Filling:
- Beat butter and cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Make the pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract until thickened (about 2-3 minutes). Let it sit for a few minutes to firm up.
- Combine: Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- Add Cool Whip: Fold in the Cool Whip (or whipped cream) until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Dirt Cake:
- Layer the dessert: In a 9×13-inch baking dish or large trifle bowl, start by spreading a layer of crushed Oreos (about ⅓ of the crumbs) on the bottom.
- Add creamy filling: Spoon half of the creamy pudding mixture over the Oreo crumbs and spread it evenly.
- Repeat layers: Add another layer of Oreos (using another ⅓ of the crumbs), followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Finish with the last ⅓ of the Oreo crumbs on top.
- Chill: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Garnish and Serve:
- Decorate: Before serving, garnish with gummy worms to make it look like “dirt” for a fun presentation. You can also add chocolate shavings or extra crushed Oreos if desired.
- Serve: Scoop out portions with a large spoon and enjoy this creamy, chocolaty, and fun dirt cake!
This Dirt Cake is a nostalgic dessert that’s super simple to make, yet incredibly delicious with its layers of Oreo crumbs and creamy filling. Perfect for kids’ parties, summer picnics, or whenever you’re craving something sweet!