Creamy pudding layered with crushed Oreos and gummy worms makes these fun Oreo dirt cups a hit for kids' parties, Halloween treats, or easy no-bake desserts. Quick and simple, just like Halloween Brownie Cakesicles!
This easy no-bake recipe has layers of creamy chocolate pudding with crushed Oreos and gummy worms for a whimsical wormy treat that everyone loves on a Halloween night. Whether making Dirt Cups for the first time or looking to perfect the classic treat, I will provide you with essential tips, step-by-step instructions with photos and creative variations.
Why Dirt Cups Are a Must-Make Dessert
Dirt Cups combine simplicity and fun into a delicious pudding treat. They stand out because:
- Only five common ingredients are needed.
- No baking required-perfect for hot days, parties or quick desserts.
- Individual cups make serving easy and mess-free.
- Worms rule! Kids love the playful "dirt and worms" theme; adults love the creamy-chocolate delight. And what adult doesn't love worms?!
Essential Equipment
- Food processor: Small food processor with basic buttons.
- 5.5 ounce plastic cups with lids: Clear Disposable Plastic Portion Cups.
- Bowl
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Oreos: These cookies are what give Dirt Cups their signature "dirt" texture and chocolatey flavor. When crushed, they look just like dirt - dark, slightly crumbly, and perfect for layering.
- Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: This is the base of the creamy filling. It sets quickly when whisked with cold milk, so it creates a smooth, thick chocolate cream without needing to cook. It's what makes the dessert soft and luscious.
- Milk: 2 cups cold milk to activate the instant pudding mix and give the pudding the right consistency. Using cold milk helps the pudding set properly and stay creamy. Whole milk or 2% gives the richest flavor and texture, while skim can make the pudding a little lighter but still tasty.
- Cool Whip: You will need 1 container. This is what makes the pudding layer fluffy, light, and airy.
- Gummy Worms: They sit on top like worms wriggling in the dirt. Without gummy worms, the dessert is still tasty but why would you skip them?
How to make Oreo Dirt Cups
This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients, measurements & instructions are in the recipe card below.
1. Crush the Cookies
Using a food processor or placing the Oreo cookies in a sealed plastic bag and crushing with a rolling pin, break the cookies into fine crumbs resembling "dirt." Leave some small chunks for texture contrast.
2. Prepare the Pudding
Sprinkle the pudding mix over the cold milk in a large mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth with no lumps. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken, forming a creamy pudding base.
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping into the Pudding
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding using a spatula.
Use a light hand to keep the mixture airy and fluffy-stirring vigorously will deflate it.
4. Layer the Cups
Add 1 tablespoon of Oreo crumbs on the bottom of a cup, then add 2 tablespoons of pudding
Repeat for a second and third layer of both (about ¾ cup).
Add a layer of crushed Oreos on top.
5. Top with Gummy Worms
Place 2-4 gummy worms on top of each cup to complete the "dirt and worms" look. Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours before serving to let the layers meld and chill fully.
Pro Tips for Making Oreo Dirt Cups
- Creamier Pudding: Use whole or 2% milk for creamier pudding. Skim milk also works but yields a lighter texture.
- Go Easy: Gently folding the whipped topping preserves fluffiness, making the cups light and creamy.
- Fresh Oreos Only: Use fresh Oreo cookies for best texture; avoid stale cookies which can taste dry.
- Assemble cups the day before for ease but add gummy worms just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Use disposable cups: For easy cleanup, use disposable clear plastic cups or small mason jars.
Variations and Substitution Ideas
- Vanilla Dirt Cups: Substitute chocolate pudding with vanilla instant pudding for a lighter flavor.
- Golden Dirt Cups: Swap Oreo cookies for Golden Oreos or crushed vanilla wafers for a different look and taste.
- Rich Dirt Cups: Mix in cream cheese instead of whipped topping for a more decadent filling.
- Fruit Add-In: Top with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fresher contrast and extra color.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sandwich cookies or crushed gluten-free graham crackers.
Oreo Dirt Cups
Ingredients
- 21 oreos
- 3.9 oz package instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk cold
- 8 oz container cool whip
- 20 gummy worms
Instructions
Prepare Pudding
- Mix together the pudding mix and milk and let set at least 5 minutes in fridge.
Crush Oreos
- While the pudding sets, process the Oreos into crumbs in the food processor.
Fold Cool Whip
- Fold the cool whip into the pudding mixture.
Assemble the Cups
- Add 1 tablespoon of Oreo crumbs on the bottom of a cup, then add 2 tablespoons of pudding, then repeat for a second and third layer of both and then add 1 more tablespoon of Oreo crumbs on top.
- Add 2 gummy worms into the dirt cups.
- Repeat step four and five until you run out of pudding mixture, making about 10 servings.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of cool whip?
Only if you're planning on eating them all the day they are made, as homemade whipped cream deflates quicker than cool whip.
Do I have to serve them in cups, or can I serve it in a large bowl or baking dish?
The easiest way to serve it, especially at a kids birthday party, would be in individual cups, as described in the recipe. If you use larger or smaller cups, it'll change the number of cups you can make.
Is this recipe too chocolatey?
This recipe is not too chocolatey. It is on the lighter side as far as richness goes.
When would this dessert be best to serve?
These can be served at parties, potlucks, at home for a special dessert, or really anytime! Make it fun with themes! Such as a graveyard theme for Halloween, construction theme, dinosaurs, Easter, or a garden for spring.
To store Oreo Dirt Cups properly
- Refrigerate: Cover the Dirt Cups tightly with plastic wrap and store the cups in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Add gummy worms before serving: To maintain the best texture and freshness, avoid adding the gummy worms until just before serving, as they can harden or become sticky if stored too long with the dessert.
- Eat them within a few days: Keep in mind that the Oreo cookie crumbs will gradually soften as they absorb moisture from the pudding, so serve within a few days for the best "dirt" texture.
- For make-ahead preparation, you can assemble the Dirt Cups several hours or up to a day in advance, refrigerate them covered, and then add fresh gummy worms and any decorative toppings right before serving to ensure optimum freshness and presentation.
Donna says
So easy my grand kids made these