Name: Dirt Cake Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
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)

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Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, crunchy Oreo crust, and vibrant candy toppings, it’s sure to be a hit. This no-bake treat is easy to put together and offers a sweet, indulgent experience with every bite.

Dirt Cake Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love Dirt Cake Casserole because it’s the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. The Oreo crust gives it a rich, satisfying crunch, while the cream cheese and pudding layers create a smooth, velvety texture. And of course, the pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates and mini Oreos on top make it irresistibly fun and festive. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this dessert is guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Plus, it’s no-bake, which means I can whip it up without having to turn on the oven!

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)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preparing the Oreo Crust

First, I crush the Oreos. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they’re finely ground.
I set aside ½ cup of the crushed Oreos for the final topping.
Next, I spread the remaining crushed Oreos evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base of the casserole.

Making the Cream Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Then, I gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until fully combined and smooth.

Preparing the Pudding Mixture

In a separate bowl, I whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding thickens.
I let the pudding set for about 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the right consistency.
Once thickened, I fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Assembling the Layers

I spread the cream cheese-pudding mixture evenly over the Oreo crust in the baking dish.
Then, I sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of crushed Oreos over the top to add a little extra crunch.

Decorating and Chilling

To finish, I top the casserole with mini Oreos and pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates for a festive and colorful touch.
Finally, I cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set properly before serving.

Servings and Timing

This Dirt Cake Casserole makes about 12 servings, depending on the size of your portions. It takes around 20-30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 2 hours of chill time to ensure everything sets up properly.

Variations

Flavored pudding: Try using different flavored instant pudding, like chocolate or butterscotch, for a unique twist on the dessert.
Nutty topping: Add some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the top for an extra crunch.
Other toppings: You can mix up the toppings by using sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or even gummy worms to make it even more fun.

Storage/Reheating

I like to store the Dirt Cake Casserole in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend reheating it, as it’s best enjoyed cold. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 1 month, though the texture may change slightly after freezing.

FAQs

How do I make the crust stick together?

To help the crust stay together, I make sure to press the crushed Oreos firmly into the bottom of the baking dish. The creamy layers on top will also help hold everything in place.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of Oreos, you can use other cookies like chocolate chip cookies, graham crackers, or even Nilla wafers to create a different base.

Can I use a different type of whipped topping?

You can substitute the Cool Whip with any brand of whipped topping, or even make your own homemade whipped cream if you prefer a more natural option.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains Oreos, which are not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free Oreos or use a gluten-free cookie option for the crust if you need to make it gluten-free.

Can I make Dirt Cake Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead dessert. I love making it the night before or earlier in the day to give it plenty of time to chill and set in the fridge.

Conclusion

Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun, easy, and absolutely delicious dessert that I can’t get enough of. The combination of creamy pudding, rich cream cheese, and crunchy Oreos is irresistible, and the colorful candy toppings make it even more delightful. Whether it’s for a party or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in my dessert rotation.