Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms are a fun dessert that kids (and adults!) love. They combine creamy chocolate pudding, crushed cookies that look like dirt, and squiggly gummy worms peeking out. Cute and delicious!
Making these is as easy as pie – or should I say, easy as dirt! 😂 Just layer the pudding and cookies, toss in some gummy worms, and you’re set for a treat that looks like a garden gone wild!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Pudding Mix: Instant pudding mix gives you a rich and creamy filling. If you prefer a homemade option, you can make it from scratch using cocoa powder, sugar, and cornstarch, which can be a fun twist!
Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds a lightness to the pudding. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but the texture will be less fluffy.
Oreo Cookies: Crushed Oreos provide that classic “dirt” look and taste. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate graham crackers instead.
Gummy Worms: The stars of the show! If gummy worms aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap in gummy bears or even chocolate-covered raisins for variety.
How Do I Get Perfectly Layered Dirt Cups?
Layering your Dirt Cups is key to creating an appealing dessert. To do this well, follow these steps:
- Start with pudding: Spoon an even layer of pudding at the bottom of your cup.
- Add dirt: Sprinkle crushed Oreos on top of the pudding to create the “dirt” layer.
- Insert gummy worms: Place the worms so part of them is peeking out. This makes it look fun and inviting!
- Repeat: Continue layering, alternating pudding and crushed Oreos, until you reach the top of the cup.
- Finish strong: Top with more Oreos and a gummy worm for a great presentation.
Lastly, refrigerating the cups helps everything set nicely and makes the layers more distinct. Happy layering!
Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dirt:
- 20 Oreo cookies or similar chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed into fine crumbs)
For the Topping:
- 1 package gummy worms (about 20 worms)
- Mini Oreos or Oreo halves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and requires at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip them up quickly, but they’ll need some time to set before you dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pudding:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 2 minutes. Once thickened, pop it in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to chill a bit more.
2. Whip the Cream:
While the pudding is chilling, take another mixing bowl and whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters out, the cream holds its shape well.
3. Combine the Layers:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture. Do this slowly to keep the mixture light and fluffy; you’re creating a delicious dessert that’s not too dense!
4. Crush the Oreos:
Next, crush the Oreo cookies! Place them in a plastic zip bag and crush them finely with a rolling pin or a food processor until they look like dirt. Messy, but fun!
5. Assemble the Dirt Cups:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by placing a layer of the chocolate pudding mixture at the bottom of small cups or jars.
6. Add the Dirt:
Follow with a layer of the crushed Oreos on top of the pudding. This is the “dirt” layer that makes it look super fun!
7. Add the Worms:
Place a few gummy worms around the edges of the cup or partially bury them in the pudding. Make it look like they are having a party in the dirt!
8. Continue Layering:
Repeat the layers of pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms until the cup is full, aiming to finish with a layer of crushed Oreos on top.
9. Garnish:
For a final touch, place a mini Oreo or an Oreo half on top, and maybe throw in a couple of gummy worms for good measure!
10. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the cups and place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let all the flavors meld together. This makes your dirt cups super tasty!
Now you are ready to enjoy your delicious and fun Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms! Perfect for parties, celebrations, or just a fun dessert at home.
Can I Use Homemade Pudding Instead of Instant Pudding Mix?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer homemade pudding, you can make it from scratch using cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and milk. Just ensure it has cooled sufficiently before folding in the whipped cream.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make Dirt Cups dairy-free, you can use non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk for the pudding, and substitute coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping for the heavy cream. Just check that your cookies and gummy worms are also dairy-free!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Dirt Cups?
Leftover Dirt Cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re covered to keep them fresh. The layers may blend a bit, but they’ll still taste delicious!
Can I Use Different Candy for Topping?
Definitely! If gummy worms aren’t your thing, feel free to replace them with any candy you prefer, such as chocolate-covered raisins, candies, or even crushed candy bars to give it your own twist!