Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a festive, no-bake dessert that combines layers of crushed Oreos, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping with colorful candy decorations. It’s a playful and indulgent treat perfect for spring gatherings, especially Easter. With its sweet, creamy filling and crunchy cookie base, this dessert is as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Fun and festive—perfect for Easter celebrations
-
No baking required, making it simple and quick to prepare
-
Creamy layers of pudding and cream cheese for a rich texture
-
Oreo cookie base adds a crunchy, chocolatey contrast
-
Easily customizable with your favorite candies or sprinkles
-
A hit with both children and adults
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
400 g Oreo cookies, crushed
-
225 g cream cheese, softened
-
60 g unsalted butter, softened
-
125 g powdered sugar
-
100 g instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz)
-
480 ml cold milk
-
240 ml whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
-
150 g pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&M’s)
-
60 g mini Oreo cookies (for topping)
Directions
Preparing the Oreo Crust:
-
Crush the Oreos:
Place the Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs. If using a zip-top bag, crush with a rolling pin until finely ground. -
Reserve for Topping:
Set aside 60 g of the crushed Oreos for topping later. -
Layer the Base:
Spread the remaining Oreo crumbs evenly in the bottom of a 23×33 cm (9×13 inch) baking dish to form a solid base.
Making the Cream Cheese Layer:
-
Blend Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. -
Incorporate Whipped Topping:
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
Preparing the Pudding Mixture:
-
Mix Pudding and Milk:
In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Allow to sit briefly to fully set.
Assembling the Casserole:
-
Combine Layers:
Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and evenly blended. -
Layer the Filling:
Spread the pudding-cream cheese mixture evenly over the Oreo crust. -
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the reserved Oreo crumbs evenly over the top, followed by pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates and mini Oreos for a festive finish. -
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
-
Chocolate Pudding: Substitute vanilla pudding with chocolate for a richer version.
-
Spring Theme: Add marshmallow chicks or edible grass for a more decorative Easter theme.
-
Fruit Layer: Add a layer of sliced strawberries or bananas between the Oreo crust and filling.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
-
Homemade Whipped Cream: Replace Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
storage/reheating
Store Easter Dirt Cake Casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change. Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually best when made several hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, homemade vanilla pudding can be used as long as it is well chilled and thickened.
Is Cool Whip necessary?
Cool Whip helps provide structure, but you can substitute with stabilized whipped cream.
Can I freeze the dessert?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the cream and pudding layers.
What type of Oreo should I use?
Classic chocolate Oreos are ideal, but you can experiment with Golden Oreos for a lighter version.
Do I need to remove the Oreo filling before crushing?
No, crush the cookies with the filling intact—it adds to the richness of the crust.
Can I use a different candy topping?
Yes, use jelly beans, chocolate eggs, or pastel sprinkles to suit your preference.
How can I make this more colorful?
Add a few drops of food coloring to the pudding-cream cheese mixture for a pastel hue.
Can I make this in individual cups?
Absolutely—layer the ingredients in clear cups or jars for a portable, single-serve version.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in the fridge, leftovers remain fresh for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a no-fuss, festive dessert that brings color, flavor, and fun to your holiday table. With creamy pudding layers, crushed Oreos, and cheerful candy toppings, this make-ahead treat is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the spring season.
Print
Easter Dirt Cake Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Celebrate spring with this fun and festive Easter Dirt Cake Casserole! Layers of crushed Oreos, creamy cheesecake filling, and fluffy vanilla pudding are topped with pastel candy and mini cookies for a no-bake Easter dessert that’s as cute as it is delicious—perfect for family gatherings and Easter celebrations.
Ingredients
-
400 g Oreo cookies, crushed
-
225 g cream cheese, softened
-
60 g unsalted butter, softened
-
125 g powdered sugar
-
100 g instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz)
-
480 ml cold milk
-
240 ml whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
-
150 g pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (e.g., M&M’s)
-
60 g mini Oreo cookies (for topping)
Instructions
Prepare the Oreo Crust:
-
Crush Oreos using a food processor or by hand in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
-
Reserve 60 g of crushed Oreos for topping.
-
Spread remaining crumbs in a 23×33 cm baking dish to form the base layer.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
-
Beat softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
-
Fold in Cool Whip gently until fully combined and fluffy.
3. Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
-
Let it sit briefly, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
-
Spread the cream cheese-pudding mixture evenly over the Oreo base.
-
Sprinkle reserved crushed Oreos evenly over the top.
-
Decorate with pastel M&M’s and mini Oreo cookies.
5. Chill and Serve:
-
Refrigerate the casserole for at least 2 hours before serving to set.
Notes
-
For extra texture, fold some mini marshmallows or chopped chocolate into the filling.
-
This no-bake dessert can be made a day ahead—just cover and chill overnight.
-
Swap vanilla pudding for white chocolate or cheesecake flavor for variation.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *