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The Best No-Bake Halloween Dirt Cups Recipe

no-bake Halloween dirt cups - featured image

These no-bake Halloween dirt cups are a quick and easy dessert made with creamy chocolate pudding, crushed Oreo ‘dirt,’ and gummy worms. Perfect for Halloween parties, they come together in under 20 minutes and are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 packages (3.9 ounces each) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 package (14.3 ounces) Oreo cookies (about 36 cookies, regular not double-stuff)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 bag (4.5 ounces) gummy worms
  • Optional: candy pumpkins, candy corn, or plastic spider rings for decoration
  • Optional: 8-10 small clear plastic cups (about 5-7 ounces each)

Instructions

  1. Crush the Oreos: Place the Oreo cookies (cream filling and all) in a food processor and pulse until they resemble fine crumbs. If using the bag method, place cookies in a large zip-top bag, seal, and crush with a rolling pin or heavy pan. Transfer crumbs to a medium bowl and stir in the melted butter. Set aside.
  2. Make the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with the cold milk. Whisk or beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the pudding thickens. Add the vanilla extract if using and stir to combine.
  3. Start layering: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the crushed Oreo mixture into the bottom of each cup. Press it down gently with the back of a spoon or a small tamper.
  4. Add the pudding: Spoon or pour the chocolate pudding over the cookie layer, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Tap the cups gently on the counter to settle the pudding and remove air bubbles.
  5. Chill the cups: Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the pudding to set.
  6. Add the top dirt layer: Once the pudding is set, sprinkle a generous layer of the remaining Oreo crumbs over the top of each cup, using about 1 to 2 tablespoons per cup.
  7. Add the gummy worms: Press 2-3 gummy worms per cup gently into the Oreo ‘dirt’ so they look like they’re crawling out. Arrange them at different angles for a fun effect.
  8. Final chill: Return the cups to the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the butter in the Oreo crumbs; it helps the ‘dirt’ hold together. Crush cookies in batches for better texture. Let the pudding set completely before adding the top layer to keep layers distinct. Use clear cups for the best visual effect. Make extra ‘dirt’ for topping. Avoid reduced-fat Oreos for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween dirt cups, no-bake dessert, chocolate pudding, Oreo dirt, gummy worms, Halloween party dessert, easy dessert