Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Dessert – No need to turn on the oven, making it easy to prepare.
- Kid-Friendly & Fun – A playful dessert that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for preparing in advance for Easter gatherings.
- Creamy & Crunchy Texture – A delicious contrast of smooth pudding and crunchy Oreos.
- Customizable – Swap the toppings or pudding flavors to match your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 package (14 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&M’s)
- ½ cup mini Oreo cookies (for topping)
Directions
Prep the Layers:
- Crush the Oreos: Place the Oreo cookies in a plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor until finely crushed.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add Sugar: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and beat until well combined.
- Prepare the Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens.
- Combine with Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.
Layer the Dessert:
- Base Layer: Spread half of the crushed Oreos evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cookie base.
- Pudding Layer: Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
- Top with More Cookies: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top.
- Decorate: Scatter pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates and mini Oreo cookies over the dessert.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Serve: Enjoy this creamy, crunchy Easter treat chilled!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4+ hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Pudding Version: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a richer taste.
- Use Different Toppings: Add shredded coconut dyed green for a "grass" effect or use Peeps marshmallows.
- Make It Lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix for a healthier option.
- Layer in Jars: Create individual servings in mason jars for a cute presentation.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Substitute Oreos with graham crackers for a slightly different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
- Serving Tip: Enjoy chilled straight from the fridge for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes! Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then use it as a substitute.
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly.
How do I prevent the Oreos from getting too soft?
Serve within a day or two, as the cookies naturally soften over time.
Can I use golden Oreos instead of regular Oreos?
Yes! Golden Oreos add a delicious vanilla flavor that works well in this recipe.
What can I use instead of pudding mix?
You can make homemade vanilla pudding if you prefer, but instant pudding keeps it quick and easy.
Can I add fresh fruit?
Yes! Fresh strawberries or sliced bananas make a great addition to this dessert.
How do I crush Oreos without a food processor?
Place them in a sealed zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs.
Can I make this dessert in individual cups?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in small cups or jars for easy serving.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
No, but you can use gluten-free sandwich cookies to make it gluten-free.
What’s the best way to serve this?
Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop portions onto plates or bowls.
Conclusion
Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a creamy, crunchy, and colorful dessert that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. With its simple no-bake preparation and fun, festive toppings, this treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make it ahead of time and enjoy a sweet, hassle-free Easter dessert!
Dirt Cake Casserole
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun, festive, no-bake dessert featuring layers of crushed Oreos, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. Topped with pastel candies and mini Oreos, this colorful treat is perfect for Easter celebrations and spring gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&M’s)
- ½ cup mini Oreo cookies (for topping)
Instructions
Prep the Layers:
- Crush the Oreos: Place Oreo cookies in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add Sugar: Mix in powdered sugar until well combined.
- Prepare the Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Combine with Whipped Topping: Gently fold in whipped topping until creamy.
Layer the Dessert:
- Base Layer: Spread half of the crushed Oreos in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the Oreo layer.
- Pudding Layer: Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
- Top with More Cookies: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos over the top.
- Decorate: Scatter pastel candy-coated chocolates and mini Oreo cookies for a festive finish.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate: Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Scoop and enjoy this creamy, crunchy Easter treat!
Notes
- Chocolate Pudding Version: Use chocolate pudding for a richer taste.
- Creative Toppings: Add green coconut “grass” or Peeps marshmallows.
- Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding.
- Single Servings: Layer in small mason jars for easy serving.
- Graham Cracker Twist: Substitute Oreos with graham crackers for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered
- Cuisine: American
