This Easter dirt cake is a playful twist on the classic dirt cake, made with kid-friendly ingredients and decorated to match the holiday. It’s quick to assemble, requires no baking, and is perfect for serving at Easter brunch, potlucks, or as a make-ahead dessert. Kids and adults alike will love digging into this sweet, creamy treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies)
Green-tinted shredded coconut (optional for “grass”)
Directions
Place Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat together softened butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture, then gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed cookies, then spread the cream mixture evenly over the top.
Finish with the remaining crushed cookies to create the “dirt” layer on top.
Decorate with Easter candy and green-tinted coconut to resemble a festive garden or springtime scene.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 12. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 2 hours Total time: approximately 2 hours 20 minutes Servings: 12
Variations
Chocolate Version: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
Individual Cups: Serve in small cups or jars for individual portions.
Strawberry Dirt Cake: Use strawberry pudding and golden Oreos for a fruity twist.
Gummy Worms: Add gummy worms for a playful garden look.
Easter Bunny Scene: Use bunny-shaped marshmallows or candy carrots for themed decor.
Storage/Reheating
Store Easter dirt cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream and cookies will become mushy. Serve chilled; no reheating required.
FAQs
Can I make Easter dirt cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before and refrigerate until serving.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, homemade whipped cream works well. Just make sure it’s stabilized if you plan to store the cake for more than a few hours.
Do I need to remove the cream filling from the Oreos?
No, process the whole cookies—cream and all—for the best flavor and texture.
What kind of pudding should I use?
Instant vanilla pudding is classic, but chocolate or cheesecake flavors also work well.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free sandwich cookies and ensure the pudding mix is labeled gluten-free.
How do I tint the coconut green?
Mix shredded coconut with a few drops of green food coloring and stir until evenly colored.
Can I make this in layers?
Yes, alternating layers of cookie crumbs and cream mixture in a trifle dish creates a beautiful presentation.
Is this safe to leave out at room temperature?
It should be refrigerated until ready to serve. Don’t leave it out for more than 1–2 hours.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a stabilized whipped topping blend for a lighter version.
How do I keep the candy from getting soggy?
Add the candy decorations just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Conclusion
Easter dirt cake is a cheerful, no-bake dessert that brings sweet fun to your holiday table. With its creamy filling, cookie “soil,” and festive candy toppings, it’s a treat that looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this easy and creative dessert is sure to become a springtime favorite.
Easter dirt cake is a whimsical, no-bake dessert made with layers of creamy pudding and crushed chocolate cookies, topped with festive Easter candies. It’s a fun and delicious treat perfect for spring celebrations.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 20 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 (14.3 oz) package Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies)
1/2 cup shredded coconut, tinted green (optional for “grass”)
Instructions
Place Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar together until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed cookies on the bottom.
Spread the cream mixture evenly over the cookie layer.
Top with the remaining crushed cookies to resemble “dirt.”
Decorate with Easter candy and green-tinted coconut to create a festive spring scene.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Use chocolate pudding for a richer version.Serve in individual cups or jars for easy portions.Add gummy worms or candy carrots for extra decoration.Decorate just before serving to keep candy fresh.Tint coconut by mixing with green food coloring.
