Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip. Whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. However, be aware that homemade whipped cream may not hold up as long as Cool Whip, so plan to serve the dessert within 24 hours.

My pudding layer seems too runny. What did I do wrong?

The most common cause is using cook-and-serve pudding instead of instant pudding, or not allowing enough chilling time. Make sure you're using instant pudding mix and give the dessert at least 3 hours to set in the refrigerator. Using too much milk can also cause runniness.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, dairy-free pudding mix with almond or coconut milk, and dairy-free whipped topping. The cookies are already dairy-free (traditional Oreos), making this adaptation straightforward.

How far in advance can I decorate with the Easter candies?

For best results, add the decorative candies no more than 1-2 hours before serving. Items like Peeps can become sticky or stale if left on the dessert too long, and colored candies may begin to bleed their dyes into the white topping.

Easter Dirt Cake Recipe

Description

A delightful and festive no-bake dessert, the Easter Dirt Cake combines creamy layers of cheesecake-like filling with crushed Oreos. Topped with Easter-themed candies, it’s the perfect treat for holiday celebrations or springtime gatherings. Easy to prepare and completely customizable, this recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the base:

1 package Oreos (divided)

Cream Cheese Mixture:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
16 oz cool whip

Pudding Mixture:

2 boxes INSTANT vanilla pudding (3.3 oz box each)
3 cups milk

Toppings:

Easter candy (e.g., Peeps, Robin eggs, sprinkles)

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Instructions

Prepare the Oreo Base
Crush 2/3 of the package of Oreos and evenly spread the crumbs in the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Set it aside for later use.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
Using a handheld mixer, blend the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and cool whip, ensuring a creamy and lump-free consistency. Set the mixture aside.
Prepare the Pudding Mixture
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the milk and the instant vanilla pudding until fully combined. Let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly, then fold this mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Cake
Pour the cream cheese and pudding mixture over the Oreo crumb base, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos over the top of the pudding layer.
Chill the Cake
Cover the pan and refrigerate the dessert for at least 3 hours to allow the layers to firm up.
Decorate and Serve
Just before serving, remove the cake from the refrigerator. Add your chosen Easter candies, such as Peeps, Robin eggs, and sprinkles, for festive decoration. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Traditional Oreos are recommended for the base, but feel free to use flavored Oreos (e.g., Golden, Mint, or Double Stuf) to change up the flavor of your dessert.
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are fully softened to ensure a smooth mixture.
This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it a convenient option for holidays or parties.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 370 kcal
Sugar: 31g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg