Dirt Dessert

Total Time

Prep: 30 min. + chilling

Makes

20 servings

Updated: Jun. 30, 2023
My mom used to serve this yummy dessert, and I just loved it. It's so fun to eat and a snap to make. Add some gummy worms on top for the kids if you'd like. —Kristi Linton, Bay City, Michigan

Ingredients

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 3-1/2 cups cold 2% milk
  • 2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 carton (12 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 package (15-1/2 ounces) Oreo cookies, crushed
  • Shaved white chocolate, optional

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth. In another large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mixes for 2 minutes; let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Gradually stir into cream cheese mixture. Fold in whipped topping.
  2. Spread 1-1/3 cups crushed cookies into an ungreased 13x9-in. dish. Layer with half the pudding mixture and half the remaining cookies. Repeat layers. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve with shaved white chocolate if desired.

Dirt Pudding Tips

How do I make worms and dirt?

The easiest way to decorate dirt pudding is with store-bought gummy worms. For dirt, use crushed Oreo cookies.

Can I make dirt pudding without cream cheese?

Classic dirt pudding and this mind-blowing funfetti ice cream cone pie both contain cream cheese and butter, and that’s what makes these no-bake desserts so thick and indulgent. Recipes that don’t use cream cheese won’t have as much body or richness. We created a low-fat version of this recipe, and it uses fat-free and regular cream cheese, but skips the butter.

What if my pudding doesn't set?

As long as you follow the recipe—being sure to use instant pudding mix and to whisk it vigorously until thickened—this is not going to be a problem for you. If you don’t use the right mix or whisk it long enough, the filling might be thin. In that case, try freezing the dirt pudding, then scoop out servings as a frozen dessert! Drizzle with homemade hot fudge for an irresistible mudslide treat. Research contributed by Christine Rukavena, Taste of Home Book Editor.

Nutrition Facts

1/2 cup: 278 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 316mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.