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Easy Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms

Easy Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms - featured image

These Easy Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms are a playful, no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy chocolate pudding, crushed Oreo ‘dirt,’ and gummy worms peeking out. Perfect for Halloween parties, they come together in under 20 minutes of active prep and are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (3.9 oz) package instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold whole milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (14.3 oz) package Oreo cookies (regular, not double-stuf)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
  • 1 (5 oz) bag gummy worms
  • Optional: gummy spiders, candy eyeballs, or Halloween sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Make the Oreo ‘Dirt’: Place all Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until they resemble fine crumbs. Alternatively, place cookies in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in melted butter if using. Set aside.
  2. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides. Add powdered sugar (if using) and vanilla extract, beat for another minute until well combined.
  3. Make the Pudding: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until pudding starts to thicken. Let sit for 3-4 minutes to fully set up.
  4. Combine Everything: Add prepared pudding to the bowl with cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined, about 30 seconds. Do not overmix. Scrape down sides and stir with a spatula.
  5. Layer the Cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of chocolate pudding mixture into the bottom of each clear cup. Tap gently to level. Add a generous layer of Oreo crumbs (about 1-2 tablespoons). Repeat with another layer of pudding, then another layer of Oreo crumbs. You should have at least two layers of each.
  6. Add the Worms: Press 2-3 gummy worms into the top layer of Oreo crumbs so they are partially buried, looking like they are crawling out. For extra effect, let one worm dangle over the edge. Add optional decorations if desired.
  7. Chill and Serve: Cover cups loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Serve cold straight from the fridge.

Notes

Room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth texture. Chilling for at least 2 hours is crucial for proper set. For extra crunch, store Oreo crumbs separately and add just before serving. Make-ahead: assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk and dairy-free cream cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies and certified gluten-free pudding mix.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween dirt cups, gummy worms, no-bake dessert, chocolate pudding, Oreo dirt, Halloween party dessert, easy dessert