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The Best Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms

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These no-bake Halloween dirt cups feature layers of creamy chocolate pudding, crushed Oreo ‘dirt,’ and gummy worms crawling out. A fun, crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together in under 20 minutes of active time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (3.9 oz) package instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 (14.3 oz) package chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos)
  • 1 (4.25 oz) package gummy worms
  • Optional: Green food coloring
  • 12 small clear plastic cups (3 to 5 oz size)
  • Small Halloween-themed decorations (plastic spiders, tombstones, or candy eyeballs for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Crush the Oreos: Place the package of Oreos in a large Ziploc bag. Seal it, then use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs. You want a mix of fine powder and small pebbles—think actual garden dirt texture. Set aside. (Pro tip: leave a few slightly larger chunks for visual interest.)
  2. Make the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups cold whole milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. It should look glossy and start to hold soft peaks. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set up.
  3. Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding using a spatula. Use a slow, sweeping motion—don’t stir vigorously or you’ll deflate the mixture. You want a light, mousse-like texture. At this point, you can add a few drops of green food coloring if you want ‘slime’ pudding.
  4. Layer the cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crushed Oreos into the bottom of each clear plastic cup. Press down lightly with the back of a spoon to create a solid base layer.
  5. Add the pudding mixture: Divide the pudding mixture evenly among the 12 cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
  6. Top with more ‘dirt’: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos over the pudding layer. You want a thick, even coating that completely hides the pudding underneath.
  7. Add the gummy worms: Gently press 2 to 3 gummy worms into the top of each cup, letting some dangle over the edge like they’re crawling out of the dirt. For extra effect, push one worm partially into the ‘dirt’ so it looks like it’s burrowing.
  8. Chill: Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly. Overnight is even better.

Notes

For best results, crush Oreos just before assembly to keep them crunchy. Use cold milk for proper pudding setting. Let pudding rest 5 minutes after whisking before folding in whipped topping. Cups can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead; add gummy worms just before serving to prevent them from getting too soft. For dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk and dairy-free whipped topping. For gluten-free, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://bakebelle.com/the-best-halloween-dirt-cups-with-gummy-worms/