Oreo Dirt Cake is the ultimate no bake dessert that brings together the creamy sweetness of pudding, the tang of cream cheese, and the irresistible crunch of crushed Oreos. This American classic is beloved for its nostalgic charm and effortless preparation. Whether you’re whipping it up for a potluck, birthday party, or just craving something sweet, this crowd-pleaser is ready in no time—with no oven required. All it takes is 20 minutes of prep and a few hours of chilling for the magic to happen. Each bite is pure comfort and joy.
Why You’ll Love This Oreo Dirt Cake
If you’re a fan of easy, rich, and creamy desserts, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Oreo Dirt Cake. Here’s why:
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No oven needed: Perfect for warm-weather days or when you just don’t feel like baking.
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Kid-friendly favorite: Kids love the fun look and taste—especially with added gummy worms!
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Easy to make ahead: Prepare it the night before your event and let it chill until you’re ready to serve.
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Perfect for parties: Makes 16 servings and looks beautiful in a dish or trifle bowl.
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Highly adaptable: Swap in different flavors, cookies, or toppings to fit any occasion.
Ingredients
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1 (3.4-ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
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1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
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30 Oreo cookies (or chocolate sandwich cookies), divided
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8 tablespoons salted butter, melted
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3 cups cold whole milk
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8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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1 tablespoon confectioner’s sugar
Step-by-Step: How to Make Oreo Dirt Cake
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Prepare the dish: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish and set it aside.
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Make the pudding base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate and vanilla pudding mixes with cold milk. Beat with a hand mixer for about 3 to 4 minutes, until thick and smooth. Set aside.
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Build the crust: Crush 20 of the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by sealing them in a bag and crushing with a rolling pin. In a bowl, stir the crushed cookies with melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish to create an even crust.
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Cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Spread this evenly over the Oreo crust.
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Add pudding layer: Pour the chocolate pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread evenly with a spatula.
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Make whipped cream topping: In a clean bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and confectioner’s sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
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Top it off: Crush the remaining 10 Oreos and sprinkle them generously over the top of the dessert.
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Refrigerate: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until fully set. If you choose to freeze it, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cutting into squares.
Helpful Tips
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Let cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps and get a silky-smooth filling.
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Use whole milk for the creamiest pudding consistency.
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Refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours before serving to allow the layers to set properly.
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Make sure to crush the Oreos consistently for a sturdy crust and an even topping.
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Use a sharp or serrated knife to cut clean slices after chilling.
Substitutions and Variations
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Gluten-free option: For a gluten-free version, replace standard Oreos with gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
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Dairy-free adaptation: Use almond or oat milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut whipped cream.
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Cool Whip shortcut: Swap the homemade whipped cream for one tub of Cool Whip to save time.
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Fun toppings: Add gummy worms, mini marshmallows, or sprinkles on top for a playful twist.
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Different pudding flavors: Try white chocolate or cookies and cream pudding mix instead of chocolate and vanilla.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container or tightly covered in the fridge. Oreo Dirt Cake keeps well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. To serve from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator or sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps soften the layers for easier cutting and a better texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 16 servings total):
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Calories: 292
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Carbohydrates: 21g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 12g
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Cholesterol: 56mg
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Sodium: 226mg
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Potassium: 141mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 14g
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Calcium: 82mg
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Vitamin A: 659 IU
Please note: Nutrition information may vary depending on brands and substitutions used.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve cold in squares, scoops, or mini dessert cups.
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Add gummy worms for a fun dirt-and-worms theme, perfect for kids.
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Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
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Pair with ice cream or a glass of milk for a creamy, dreamy finish.
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Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh contrast to the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oreo Dirt Cake
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Oreo Dirt Cake is ideal for making in advance. It holds up beautifully in the fridge overnight and the flavors deepen as it chills.
Do I have to use both chocolate and vanilla pudding?
No, you can use all chocolate or all vanilla if you prefer. The combo just adds extra depth of flavor.
Can I use pre-made whipped topping instead of homemade?
Absolutely! You can substitute the homemade whipped cream with about 2 cups of Cool Whip.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes. You can freeze the dessert for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it slightly before serving to soften the layers.
Can I double the recipe?
Of course. Simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13 inch pan instead of an 8×8.
Conclusion
Thank you so much for joining me in making this delightful Oreo Dirt Cake! It’s creamy, chocolatey, and full of that classic Oreo crunch that we all know and love. This recipe has been a go-to in my kitchen for years, especially when I need something simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to please a crowd. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too. Whether it’s for a party, a holiday, or just a cozy night in, I know you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy no-baking, and thank you for being part of this food-loving community!
Print
Oreo Dirt Cake
- Total Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Oreo Dirt Cake is a creamy, no bake dessert made with layers of chocolate pudding, sweet cream cheese, whipped topping, and crushed Oreo cookies. It’s an easy American favorite that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a simple make-ahead treat.
Ingredients
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
30 Oreo cookies, divided
8 tablespoons salted butter, melted
3 cups cold whole milk
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon confectioner’s sugar
Instructions
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Prepare the dish: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish and set it aside.
-
Make the pudding base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate and vanilla pudding mixes with cold milk. Beat with a hand mixer for about 3 to 4 minutes, until thick and smooth. Set aside.
-
Build the crust: Crush 20 of the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by sealing them in a bag and crushing with a rolling pin. In a bowl, stir the crushed cookies with melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish to create an even crust.
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Cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Spread this evenly over the Oreo crust.
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Add pudding layer: Pour the chocolate pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread evenly with a spatula.
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Make whipped cream topping: In a clean bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and confectioner’s sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
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Top it off: Crush the remaining 10 Oreos and sprinkle them generously over the top of the dessert.
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Refrigerate: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until fully set. If you choose to freeze it, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth layer.
Chill the dessert long enough so the layers set properly before cutting.
You can swap Oreos for gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies if needed.
If freezing, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 292
- Sugar: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 4g