Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easter Dirt Cake is a fun, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for spring celebrations. With layers of creamy pudding, crushed cookies, and festive toppings like candy eggs and gummy worms, this cake is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults, making it ideal for Easter gatherings.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheesepowdered sugarsour creamvanilla instant pudding mixcold milkwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)Oreo cookies (crushed)candy eggs (like Cadbury Mini Eggs or M&M’s eggs)gummy wormsgreen-tinted shredded coconut (optional for grass effect)
directions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Add sour cream and continue mixing until well blended.
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in the whipped topping.
Crush the Oreo cookies using a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
In a trifle dish or 9×13-inch pan, layer the dessert: start with a layer of crushed cookies, then add a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with crushed cookies on top.
Decorate the top with candy eggs, gummy worms, and green-tinted coconut to resemble grass and a garden scene.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
Try different cookie varieties like Golden Oreos or chocolate graham crackers.
Add a layer of chocolate chips or sprinkles for extra texture.
Use pastel-colored candies or marshmallows to fit the Easter theme.
Serve in individual cups for a cute, portioned presentation.
storage/reheating
Store Easter Dirt Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.Not suitable for freezing as the texture may change.You do not need to reheat this dessert—serve it chilled.
FAQs
Can I make Easter Dirt Cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a few hours or a day in advance so it can chill and set.
Do I have to use Cool Whip?
You can substitute with homemade whipped cream, but Cool Whip helps with stability.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Cream cheese adds richness, but you can substitute with more whipped topping for a lighter texture.
What if I don’t like gummy worms?
Feel free to skip them or replace with other Easter-themed candies.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes, white chocolate or cheesecake-flavored pudding also work well.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free sandwich cookies and check that your pudding mix is gluten-free.
How can I color the coconut?
Add a few drops of green food coloring to shredded coconut in a zip-top bag and shake until evenly tinted.
Is this dessert kid-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s sweet, fun to make, and full of Easter candy!
Conclusion
Easter Dirt Cake is a whimsical and easy dessert that brings springtime cheer to your table. With its creamy layers, chocolate cookie crumble, and colorful candy toppings, it’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Make it part of your Easter tradition for a treat that’s as joyful as the holiday itself.
Easter Dirt Cake
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easter Dirt Cake is a fun, festive no-bake dessert featuring layers of crushed cookies, creamy pudding, and whipped topping, decorated with Easter candies to resemble a spring garden.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 container (12 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional, dyed green for grass)
- Assorted Easter candies (Peeps, chocolate eggs, gummy worms)
Instructions
- Crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor or in a sealed bag with a rolling pin until fine crumbs form. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
- In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed Oreos, then spread half of the pudding mixture over it.
- Repeat with remaining Oreos and pudding mixture.
- Top with shredded coconut dyed green with food coloring to resemble grass (optional).
- Decorate with Easter candies such as Peeps, chocolate eggs, and gummy worms.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- You can make this dessert a day ahead for convenience.
- Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
- Customize toppings to fit other holidays or themes.