Oreo Dirt Cake is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert that’s rich, creamy, and irresistibly fun. With layers of crushed Oreos, smooth vanilla pudding, and a fluffy cream cheese filling, this classic treat looks just like edible “dirt” and tastes absolutely incredible. Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings, this dessert comes together quickly and chills beautifully for stress-free serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No oven required — completely no-bake
- Creamy, fluffy texture with crunchy Oreo layers
- Easy to make ahead for parties and events
- Kid-friendly and always a crowd favorite
- Simple ingredients with big flavor payoff
Equipment
- Hand Mixer
- Mixing Bowls
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Silicone Spatula
Ingredients
- 14 ounces Oreos
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup confectioners sugar
- 3 1/2 cups milk
- 2 large boxes instant vanilla pudding (10.2 ounces total)
- 12 ounces Cool Whip (1 1/2 small containers)
4. Directions
Step 1: Crush the Oreos
Place the Oreos into a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. If you don’t have a processor, place cookies in a sealed bag and crush using a rolling pin. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and cream cheese. Using a hand mixer, beat until smooth, creamy, and fully combined with no lumps remaining.
Step 3: Add the Sugar
Gradually add the confectioners sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until light, fluffy, and well incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Pudding
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant vanilla pudding mixes. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Slowly pour the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until fully blended and smooth.
Step 6: Fold in the Cool Whip
Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the Cool Whip into the mixture until light, fluffy, and evenly combined. Do not overmix.
Step 7: Assemble the Dirt Cake
Spread half of the crushed Oreos evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Spoon the pudding mixture over the Oreo layer and smooth the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos evenly over the top to create the classic “dirt” look.
Step 8: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
Pro Tips and Variations
- For extra crunch, reserve some larger Oreo pieces for topping.
- Add gummy worms on top for a fun, kid-friendly presentation.
- Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Use a clear dish to show off the layers for parties.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve cold with a large spoon or spatula.
- Perfect for:
- Birthday parties
- Potlucks
- BBQs and family gatherings
- Garnish with whipped cream swirls or extra cookie crumbs if desired.
Storage / Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Freezing: Not recommended, as texture may change
- Reheating: Not needed — serve chilled only
FAQs
Can I make Oreo Dirt Cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made several hours or even a day in advance.
Can I use different pudding flavors?
Vanilla works best for the classic look, but chocolate pudding also works.
Can this be made in cups instead of a dish?
Absolutely — individual cups or jars work great for parties.
Conclusion
Oreo Dirt Cake is a timeless dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy texture, crunchy cookie layers, and playful appearance make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving kids or adults, this no-bake classic is guaranteed to disappear fast.


Oreo Dirt Cake
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Classic no-bake Oreo Dirt Cake made with vanilla pudding, cream cheese, Cool Whip, and crushed Oreos—creamy, easy, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
- 14 ounces Oreos
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup confectioners sugar
- 3 1/2 cups milk
- 2 large boxes instant vanilla pudding (10.2 ounces total)
- 12 ounces Cool Whip (1 1/2 small containers)
Instructions
Step 1: Crush the Oreos
Place the Oreos into a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. If you don’t have a processor, place cookies in a sealed bag and crush using a rolling pin. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and cream cheese. Using a hand mixer, beat until smooth, creamy, and fully combined with no lumps remaining.
Step 3: Add the Sugar
Gradually add the confectioners sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until light, fluffy, and well incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Pudding
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant vanilla pudding mixes. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Slowly pour the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until fully blended and smooth.
Step 6: Fold in the Cool Whip
Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the Cool Whip into the mixture until light, fluffy, and evenly combined. Do not overmix.
Step 7: Assemble the Dirt Cake
Spread half of the crushed Oreos evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Spoon the pudding mixture over the Oreo layer and smooth the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos evenly over the top to create the classic “dirt” look.
Step 8: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
Notes
Make sure cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing.
Do not substitute cook-and-serve pudding; instant pudding is required.
This dessert thickens more as it chills.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: oreo dirt cake, no bake dessert, oreo pudding dessert, dirt cake recipe, classic oreo dessert