Description
These Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups are a fun and easy no-bake dessert, perfect for Halloween or fall gatherings. Layers of creamy chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and crushed Oreo “dirt” create a delicious and visually appealing treat, topped with green-tinted coconut “grass” and candy pumpkins.
Ingredients
- 1 (3.9-ounce) package chocolate instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (15-16 ounce) package Oreo cookies, regular or double-stuffed
- Candy pumpkins (such as Brach’s Mellowcreme Pumpkins)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- Green food coloring (gel recommended)
- Water (a few drops)
Instructions
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Crush Oreos: Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place the cookies in a large resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
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Prepare Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chocolate instant pudding mix and the cold milk for 2 minutes, according to the package directions. Let the pudding set for about 5 minutes, or until thickened.
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Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the set pudding until well combined.
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Assemble Dirt Cups:
- Layer 1 (Oreo Crumbs): Add about 1 tablespoon of crushed Oreo cookies to the bottom of each cup.
- Layer 2 (Pudding Mixture): Top the Oreo crumbs with a layer of the chocolate pudding mixture.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers, alternating between Oreo crumbs and pudding, until the cups are nearly full. End with a layer of Oreo crumbs on top.
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Chill: Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the pudding to set completely and the flavors to meld.
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Prepare Green Coconut “Grass”:
- Place the shredded coconut in a small resealable plastic bag or a container with a lid.
- Add a few drops of green gel food coloring (or liquid food coloring) and a few drops of water to the coconut.
- Seal the bag/container tightly and shake vigorously until the coconut is evenly tinted green.
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Decorate and Serve: Right before serving, remove the dirt cups from the refrigerator. Sprinkle the green-tinted coconut “grass” over the top of each cup. Place one or more candy pumpkins on top of the coconut. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Instant Pudding: Use chocolate instant pudding mix, not cook-and-serve pudding.
- Milk: You can use whole milk, 2%, skim milk, or even a plant-based milk alternative.
- Cool Whip: Make sure the Cool Whip is thawed before folding it into the pudding. You can substitute homemade whipped cream, but it may not hold its shape as well.
- Oreo Cookies: You can use regular Oreos, Double Stuf Oreos, or any flavor variation you like.
- Candy Pumpkins: Brach’s Mellowcreme Pumpkins are a classic choice, but you can use any type of pumpkin-shaped candy.
- Green Coconut: Gel food coloring is recommended for the most vibrant color, but liquid food coloring will also work.
- Make-Ahead: These dirt cups can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the coconut “grass” and candy pumpkins just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: These dirt cups are perfect for Halloween parties, fall gatherings, or any occasion. You can customize the toppings to fit different themes.
- Cups: We used 9 ounce plastic cups.