Dirt Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dirt Cups are a fun, no-bake dessert that combines chocolate pudding, crushed chocolate cookies, and gummy worms to create a playful and delicious treat that resembles a cup of soil. Perfect for kids’ parties, Halloween, or nostalgic indulgence, these cups are quick to assemble and require minimal ingredients. Their creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures make them irresistible for all ages.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chocolate pudding mix
cold milk
crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
gummy worms
clear plastic cups

directions

Prepare the chocolate pudding according to the package instructions using cold milk.

Once thickened, fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fully combined.

Spoon a layer of crushed cookies into the bottom of each cup.

Add a layer of pudding mixture, followed by another layer of crushed cookies.

Repeat layers until the cups are full, ending with a generous topping of crushed cookies.

Decorate with gummy worms by placing them on top or partially “buried” in the cookie crumbs.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6-8 dirt cups.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use vanilla or butterscotch pudding for a twist on flavor.
Add layers of chopped candy bars for extra richness.
Top with whipped cream and sprinkles for more color.
Make it spooky with Halloween-themed gummy creatures.
Create a “garden” version with candy flowers and green coconut “grass.”

storage/reheating

Store Dirt Cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may be compromised.

FAQs

Can I make Dirt Cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to a day in advance and store in the fridge.

Are Dirt Cups gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cookies and pudding mix to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Can I use homemade pudding?
Absolutely. Homemade pudding works well and adds a richer flavor.

Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized so it holds up well in layers.

Do I have to use clear cups?
Clear cups are ideal to show the layers, but any cup will work.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk, pudding mix, and whipped topping alternatives.

Can kids make this recipe?
Yes, this is a great hands-on dessert for kids to help assemble.

What’s the best way to crush the cookies?
Use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.

Conclusion

Dirt Cups are a whimsical, easy-to-make dessert that brings out the kid in everyone. With layers of creamy pudding, crunchy cookies, and chewy gummy worms, each cup delivers both flavor and fun. Whether you’re entertaining little ones or simply craving a nostalgic sweet treat, these cups are sure to dig up smiles.

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