Description

This Irresistible Easter Dirt Cake is a fun, no-bake dessert perfect for spring celebrations. Creamy layers of vanilla and chocolate pudding blend with crushed Oreos and cream cheese, topped with whipped topping and decorated with festive Easter candies like Peeps marshmallow bunnies and candy-coated chocolate eggs. The addition of dyed green shredded coconut and gummy worms creates a whimsical ‘garden’ effect that delights kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust and Base

1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

Creme Filling

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 package (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

Decorations

Peeps marshmallow bunnies or chicks
Candy-coated chocolate eggs (Cadbury Mini Eggs, M&M’s eggs, etc.)
Shredded coconut (dyed green for “grass,” optional)
Gummy worms (optional, for a playful garden look)

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Instructions

Prepare the Oreo Crust: Crush the Oreo cookies finely and mix them with the softened butter until fully combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a rich and tangy base to the cake layers.
Prepare the Pudding: In separate bowls, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with 1.5 cups cold milk, and the instant chocolate pudding mix with another 1.5 cups cold milk. Allow the pudding to set as per package instructions, usually about 5 minutes.
Combine Pudding with Cream Cheese Mixture: Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it. Then, layer the vanilla pudding over the crust, followed by a spread of the cream cheese mixture, and finish with the chocolate pudding layer on top.
Add Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping generously over the pudding layers to create a fluffy, cloud-like finish that will hold the decorative toppings.
Decorate the Cake: Sprinkle crushed Oreos on top for a dirt effect, then arrange Peeps marshmallow bunnies or chicks, candy-coated chocolate eggs, dyed green shredded coconut (for grass), and gummy worms as desired to create a festive and playful Easter garden scene.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the Dirt Cake for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to set firmly and flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

This dessert is a no-bake recipe, making it quick and easy for holiday gatherings.
Use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth mixture without lumps.
Feel free to get creative with decorations to suit your Easter theme.
Dye the coconut green by mixing shredded coconut with a few drops of green food coloring.
If you want a smaller or larger cake, adjust the ingredients and pan size accordingly.
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.