A Fun and Festive No-Bake Dessert
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)
Construction (Step-by-Step Instructions):
1. Prep the Layers:
- Crush the Oreo cookies using a plastic bag and rolling pin or a food processor until finely crumbled.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Gently fold the whipped topping (Cool Whip) into the pudding mixture until fully blended.
2. Layer the Dessert:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed Oreo cookies as the base layer.
- Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cookie layer.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreo cookies over the pudding layer.
- Decorate with pastel-colored M&M’s and mini Oreo cookies.
3. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the casserole with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey delight!
Variations:
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer taste.
- Peanut Butter Variation – Add ½ cup of peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture for a nutty flavor.
- Bunny Garden Theme – Top with Peeps marshmallow bunnies and crushed green-colored coconut for a festive Easter look.
- Fruit Addition – Add a layer of sliced strawberries or bananas between the pudding and Oreo layers for a fruity touch.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free sandwich cookies in place of Oreos.
Tips for the Best Easter Dirt Cake Casserole:
✔ Use freshly crushed Oreos – Pre-crushed cookie crumbs can be too fine and lose texture.
✔ Let it chill properly – At least 4 hours ensures the best consistency.
✔ Layer evenly – Spread each layer smoothly for the perfect balance of flavors.
✔ Decorate just before serving – This keeps the toppings fresh and prevents color bleeding.
✔ Make ahead – It’s a great make-ahead dessert for Easter gatherings!
Would you like any serving suggestions or additional Easter-themed decorations?