Description
This fun and festive Easter Dirt Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for springtime celebrations. Layers of crushed Oreos, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping create a delightful ‘dirt’ effect, topped with colorful Easter candies like Peeps and Robin Eggs for a playful touch. It’s easy to make and sure to impress guests with its whimsical presentation and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Layer
- 1 package Oreos (about 36 cookies)
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 oz Cool Whip (or whipped topping)
- 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding (3.3 oz each)
- 3 cups milk
Topping
- Easter candy such as Peeps, Robin Eggs, and sprinkles, for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookies: Begin by crushing the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin to crush, or by pulsing in a food processor. Set aside.
- Make the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix with 3 cups of cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Set aside for a few minutes to fully set.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Combine Cream Cheese Mixture and Cool Whip: Fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture gently, ensuring it is well incorporated without deflating the whipped topping.
- Combine with Pudding: Slowly fold the prepared vanilla pudding into the cream cheese and Cool Whip mixture until fully blended and smooth.
- Assemble the Dirt Cake: In a large trifle dish or 9×13 inch baking dish, start with a layer of crushed Oreos to resemble dirt. Spread half of the pudding filling evenly over the cookie layer. Add another layer of crushed Oreos, then the remaining pudding filling.
- Top with Final Oreo Layer: Finish with a thick layer of crushed Oreos on top to create the ‘dirt’ effect.
- Decorate: Arrange Easter-themed candies such as Peeps, Robin Eggs, and sprinkles on top of the dirt layer to create a fun, festive appearance.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up.
- Serve: Once chilled, scoop servings onto plates and enjoy this delightful Easter treat.
Notes
- For a firmer dessert, chill overnight.
- You can substitute the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding for a different flavor.
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for a lighter version.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Try adding gummy worms among the crushed Oreos for a spooky dirt cake variation any time of year.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American