Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can substitute 3 cups of freshly whipped cream (1½ cups heavy cream whipped to stiff peaks with 3 tablespoons powdered sugar). However, homemade whipped cream doesn't hold up as long, so plan to consume the dessert within 1-2 days.

My filling seems too runny. What happened?

The most common culprit is not allowing the pudding to set properly before combining it with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure you're using instant pudding (not cook-and-serve), and allow it to thicken for the full 2 minutes before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, non-dairy milk for the pudding, and dairy-free whipped topping. Just verify that your Oreos are dairy-free (many varieties are).

How far in advance can I decorate the dirt cake?

For best results, add the decorations no more than 2-3 hours before serving. Peeps especially tend to get soft and may lose their shape if placed on the dessert too far in advance. The moisture from the cake will affect the texture of the candies.

Easter Dirt Cake Recipe

Name: Easter Dirt Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package Oreos (divided); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 16 oz cool whip; 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding (3.3 oz each box); 3 cups milk; Easter candy (e.g., Peeps, Robin eggs, sprinkles)

Description

This festive and fluffy Easter Dirt Cake is a perfect no-bake dessert that combines a creamy pudding and cream cheese filling with layers of crushed Oreos. Topped with colorful Easter candies like Peeps, Robin eggs, and sprinkles, it’s a delightful and easy treat for springtime celebrations or any occasion.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Oreo Layer

1 package Oreos (divided)

Cream Mixture

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
16 oz cool whip
2 boxes instant vanilla pudding (3.3 oz each box)
3 cups milk

Toppings

Easter candy (e.g., Peeps, Robin eggs, sprinkles)

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Instructions

Prepare the Oreo Base:
Crush ⅔ of the Oreos into fine pieces and spread them evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 pan. Set this aside for the next layer.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, use a hand-held mixer to combine the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and cool whip and mix until fully incorporated. Set this mixture aside.
Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until it thickens. Fold this pudding mixture into the prepared cream cheese mixture, gently combining until smooth.
Assemble the Cake:
Pour the cream and pudding mixture evenly over the Oreo crumb base. Then, sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreo pieces across the top to create a dirt-like layer.
Refrigerate and Decorate:
Place the pan into the refrigerator for at least a few hours to allow the dessert to set. Right before serving, decorate the cake with colorful Easter candies such as Peeps, Robin eggs, and sprinkles for a festive touch.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different Oreo flavors (e.g., Golden Oreos, Mint Oreos) to customize the flavor.
For a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing look, crush the Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 380kcal
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg