Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easter Dirt Cake offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, with a creamy filling complemented by the crunch of Oreo cookies. Its no-bake nature makes it an easy and convenient dessert to prepare, especially when oven space is limited during holiday cooking. The festive decorations make it a fun and engaging dessert that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients

1 package Oreo cookies, crushed
6 tablespoons butter, melted
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
3.9 ounces instant chocolate pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
12 ounces whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
Marshmallow bunnies (e.g., Peeps)
Candy eggs (e.g., M&M’s, Cadbury mini eggs)
Green-tinted shredded coconut or sprinkles (optional, for grass effect)

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

Directions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies (reserving about 1/2 cup for topping) with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the Oreo crust.
Prepare the Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Gently fold in the remaining whipped topping. Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the reserved crushed Oreos over the top. For a grassy appearance, sprinkle green-tinted shredded coconut or green sprinkles over the crushed Oreos. Decorate with marshmallow bunnies and candy eggs to create a festive scene.
Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 12-16
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Pudding Flavors: Substitute chocolate pudding with vanilla or cheesecake-flavored pudding for a different taste.
Decorations: Use different themed candies and decorations to adapt the dessert for other holidays or occasions.
Individual Servings: Assemble the dessert in individual cups or jars for personalized servings.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of homemade whipped cream for the store-bought whipped topping.

How can I tint shredded coconut green for the grass effect?

Place shredded coconut in a zip-top bag, add a few drops of green food coloring, and shake until the color is evenly distributed.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dessert a day in advance. Add the decorative toppings just before serving to maintain their appearance.

What can I use if I don’t have a food processor to crush the Oreos?

Place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they reach a fine crumb consistency.

Is it necessary to remove the cream filling from the Oreos before crushing them?

No, crush the entire cookie, including the cream filling, for the crust and topping.

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

Yes, graham crackers or vanilla wafer cookies can be used as alternatives to Oreos.

How long can this dessert sit out at room temperature?

For food safety, it’s best to keep the dessert refrigerated until serving and not leave it out for more than 2 hours.

Can I add fruit to this dessert?

Yes, adding layers of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas can enhance the flavor.

What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch dish?

You can use a similar-sized dish or adjust the ingredient quantities for a smaller or larger dish.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cookies and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Easter Dirt Cake is a festive and delightful dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Its creamy layers, crunchy cookie base, and playful decorations make it a standout treat for any Easter gathering. Enjoy creating and sharing this whimsical dessert with your loved ones!

Easter Dirt Cake

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This Easter Dirt Cake is a festive, no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy chocolate cheesecake filling and crushed Oreo cookies. Topped with marshmallow bunnies, candy eggs, and green coconut “grass,” it’s a fun and delicious addition to any Easter celebration. Easy to make and perfect for kids and adults alike!

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12-16 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Combine crushed Oreos (reserve ½ cup for topping) with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar, then fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread over the Oreo crust.
Prepare the Pudding Layer: Whisk together chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thick. Fold in the remaining whipped topping. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle reserved crushed Oreos on top. Optionally, add green-tinted shredded coconut or sprinkles for a grassy effect. Decorate with marshmallow bunnies and candy eggs.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

For a different flavor, swap chocolate pudding with vanilla or cheesecake pudding.
Make individual servings by layering in cups or jars.
Use a rolling pin to crush Oreos if you don’t have a food processor.