Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun and festive dessert that’s perfect for spring celebrations. With layers of crushed Oreos, creamy pudding, and a sweet topping of pastel-colored chocolates, this no-bake treat is sure to be a hit at any gathering. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and full of delicious flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Delight: Requires no oven time, making it a hassle-free dessert.
- Perfect for Easter: The pastel candy decorations make it a festive treat.
- Creamy and Crunchy: A delicious contrast of smooth pudding and crunchy Oreos.
- Quick to Prepare: Only 20 minutes of prep before chilling.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun, colorful dessert that kids will love helping to make.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 package (14 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&M’s)
- 1/2 cup mini Oreo cookies for topping
Directions
- Prepare the Creamy Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and mix until fully combined.
- Make the Pudding Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
- Incorporate the Whipped Topping:
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- In a 9×13-inch dish, spread half of the crushed Oreos evenly on the bottom.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the Oreos, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top.
- Decorate & Chill:
- Garnish with mini Oreo cookies and pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Calories per serving: 340 kcal
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a double chocolate treat.
- Bunny-Themed: Add edible Easter bunny decorations for extra festive fun.
- Fruity Twist: Add sliced strawberries or raspberries between the layers.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top for added texture.
- Healthier Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may become watery upon thawing.
- No Reheating Needed: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best made a few hours or even a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form, then use it in place of Cool Whip.
Can I use different cookies instead of Oreos?
Yes! Try graham crackers, Nilla wafers, or chocolate chip cookies for a different twist.
Can I add food coloring to the filling?
Yes! Add a few drops of pastel-colored food dye to the pudding mixture for an even more festive Easter look.
How do I crush the Oreos?
You can crush them in a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free chocolate cookies instead of Oreos.
What if I don’t have pastel-colored candies?
You can use regular M&M’s, sprinkles, or jelly beans for a fun and colorful topping.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes! Just ensure it’s completely chilled before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How do I prevent the Oreos from getting soggy?
Assemble the cake close to serving time or layer the cookies right before serving for extra crunch.
Is this dessert suitable for kids?
Yes! It’s fun to make and perfect for Easter celebrations with kids.
Conclusion
Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is the ultimate springtime dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, a family gathering, or just want a fun and festive treat, this no-bake cake is a must-try. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and colorful layers in every bite!
Celebrate Easter with this Festive Easter Dirt Cake! A creamy, cookie-layered dessert topped with pastel candies—fun, easy, and irresistibly delicious.
Print
Easter Dirt Cake Casserole
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun, no-bake dessert layered with crushed Oreos, creamy vanilla pudding, and festive pastel-colored candies. Perfect for spring gatherings, this easy, kid-friendly treat is sure to be the highlight of your Easter celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) Oreo cookies, crushed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&M’s)
- ½ cup mini Oreo cookies for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Creamy Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and mix until fully combined.
2. Make the Pudding Mixture
- In a separate bowl, whisk vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
3. Incorporate the Whipped Topping
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Cake
- In a 9×13-inch dish, spread half of the crushed Oreos evenly on the bottom.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the Oreos, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top.
5. Decorate & Chill
- Garnish with mini Oreos and pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Make it chocolatey: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a richer flavor.
- DIY whipped cream: Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.
- Add fresh fruit: Layer in sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- For extra crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies instead of Oreos.
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