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Spooky Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms

Halloween dirt cups with gummy worms - featured image

A quick, no-bake Halloween dessert featuring layers of chocolate cookie ‘dirt’ and a creamy cheesecake-style pudding filling, topped with gummy worms. Perfect for last-minute parties and kid-friendly fun.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2024 Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies)
  • 8 ounces full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup cold heavy cream or whipping cream
  • 3.4-ounce box instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 bag gummy worms (for garnish)
  • Clear plastic cups or mason jars (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Crush the cookies: Place 20-24 Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form (about 2 cups). Alternatively, crush them in a sealed Ziploc bag using a rolling pin. Set aside.
  2. Whip the heavy cream: In a large, chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Do not over-whip.
  3. Prepare the cream cheese base: In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the instant chocolate pudding mix and vanilla extract, beating on low until combined.
  4. Mix the pudding and milk: In a third bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk. Let sit for 2 minutes until thickened.
  5. Combine the filling: Gently fold the thickened pudding mixture into the whipped cream. Then, fold in the cream cheese mixture until just combined and no white streaks remain. The consistency should be like a thick mousse.
  6. Assemble the cups: Add a layer of the chocolate cream filling to the bottom of each cup (about 1/3 full). Top with a layer of cookie crumbs. Repeat layers until the cup is full, ending with a layer of crumbs on top.
  7. Add the worms: Poke gummy worms into the top layer of cookie crumbs.
  8. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Keep equipment cold to help the heavy cream whip properly. For best texture, assemble no more than 4-5 hours before serving to prevent soggy crumbs. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though they are best consumed within 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween dessert, no-bake treats, dirt cups, gummy worms, Oreo cookies, kid-friendly snacks, classroom party ideas, quick desserts