Easter Dirt Cake Casserole

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun and festive no-bake dessert that’s perfect for celebrating spring. With layers of creamy vanilla pudding, crushed chocolate cookies, and colorful Easter decorations, this treat is easy to make and a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting an Easter gathering or simply looking for a playful dessert, this dirt cake is sure to impress!

What Is Easter Dirt Cake Casserole?

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a holiday twist on the classic dirt cake. Traditionally made with crushed cookies and pudding, this version includes pastel decorations like chocolate eggs, Peeps, and colored coconut to resemble grass. It’s a simple, no-bake dessert that delivers rich, creamy flavors with a fun presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-bake and easy to prepare – Perfect for busy holidays!
  • Kid-friendly and fun to decorate – Let little ones help with adding toppings.
  • Make-ahead dessert – Chill it in advance for stress-free entertaining.
  • Customizable – Use different pudding flavors or decorations for variety.

Ingredients

For the Base

  • 1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed

For the Creamy Filling

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (56 g) butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups (710 ml) milk
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping

For the Decoration

  • 1 cup (85 g) shredded coconut
  • Green food coloring
  • Easter candies (chocolate eggs, Peeps, sprinkles)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Creamy Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with milk until thickened. Let it sit for a couple of minutes.
  3. Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
  4. Add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture and stir until smooth.

2. Assemble the Layers

  1. Spread half of the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
  2. Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the cookie layer.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining crushed cookies on top.

3. Decorate the Cake

  1. In a small bowl, mix the shredded coconut with a few drops of green food coloring until it resembles grass.
  2. Sprinkle the green coconut over the top layer of crushed cookies.
  3. Arrange Easter candies such as chocolate eggs, Peeps, and sprinkles for a festive look.

4. Chill and Serve

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to set.
  2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve this Easter Dirt Cake alongside a cup of coffee or milk for a delightful treat.
  • Pair it with other Easter desserts like carrot cake cupcakes or sugar cookies for a festive dessert spread.
  • For individual servings, assemble the layers in small cups or jars for a fun, portable option.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

  • Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If making in advance, assemble the cake and chill it until ready to serve. Add decorations just before serving for the best presentation.

Freezing Instructions

  • While the pudding layer may not freeze well, you can freeze the assembled dirt cake (without decorations) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Recipe Variations

  • Chocolate Lovers’ Version – Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for an extra-rich flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Substitute gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative – Use dairy-free pudding mix, almond milk, and a non-dairy whipped topping.
  • Bunny Patch Theme – Add edible flowers or marshmallow bunnies for a springtime garden effect.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes! Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Use it in place of the store-bought whipped topping.

Can I use different pudding flavors?
Absolutely! Try chocolate, butterscotch, or even coconut pudding for a unique twist.

How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and add decorations before serving.

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a simple, no-bake dessert that brings joy to any Easter celebration. With its creamy layers, crunchy cookie base, and festive decorations, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Try this fun recipe and let the Easter festivities begin!

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Easter Dirt Cake Casserole

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole


  • Author: Julia Childley
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun and festive no-bake dessert made with layers of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, creamy vanilla pudding, and colorful Easter decorations. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for spring gatherings and a hit with kids and adults alike!


Ingredients

Base Layer:

  • 1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed

Creamy Filling:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (56 g) butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups (710 ml) milk
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping

Decorations:

  • 1 cup (85 g) shredded coconut
  • Green food coloring
  • Easter candies (chocolate eggs, Peeps, sprinkles)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
  3. Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture.
  4. Combine the pudding mixture with the cream cheese mixture and mix until smooth.

2. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Spread half of the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
  2. Evenly spread the pudding mixture over the cookie layer.
  3. Top with the remaining crushed cookies.

3. Decorate:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the shredded coconut with a few drops of green food coloring to resemble grass.
  2. Sprinkle the colored coconut over the top layer of crushed cookies.
  3. Arrange Easter candies (chocolate eggs, Peeps, and sprinkles) for a festive look.

4. Chill & Serve:

 

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to set.
  2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: This dessert can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Add decorations just before serving for the best presentation.
  • Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Variations: Try using chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.

 

  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute dairy-free pudding mix, almond milk, and non-dairy whipped topping.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: ~320 per serving
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