Homemade Dirt Pudding with Oreo Cookies and Gummy Worms Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic treat that’s also super easy to make, you’re in for a real delight. I absolutely love this Homemade Dirt Pudding with Oreo Cookies and Gummy Worms Recipe because it brings childhood memories to life while tasting like a decadent dessert. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and the playful gummy worms make it impossible not to smile. Whether you’re making this for a party, a family dessert, or just because, stick around—you’re going to want to try this recipe ASAP.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Homemade Dirt Pudding with Oreo Cookies and Gummy Worms Recipe really comes from using simple, quality ingredients that blend perfectly — creamy chocolate pudding, crunchy Oreo crumbs, and colorful gummy worms that bring it all to life. When you shop, look for fresh milk and good-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.

• Granulated sugar: This sweetens the pudding gently without overpowering the chocolate.
• Unsweetened natural or Dutch-process cocoa powder: I usually use Dutch-process for a richer flavor, but natural works great too.
• Cornstarch: This is the magic thickener that gives the pudding that luscious, creamy texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Whole milk: Whole milk makes the pudding extra creamy; don’t swap for something with lower fat unless you want a less rich texture.
• Unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and depth once stirred in at the end.
• Pure vanilla extract: Tiny detail but a must; it lifts all the flavors.
• Oreo cookies: The crushed Oreos bring the dirt texture—make sure to get the standard sandwich cookies, not double stuff.
• Gummy worms: These are the fun, playful topping that makes this recipe so much fun to eat.

Variations

I love that this recipe is so flexible—you can tweak it to fit the occasion or dietary needs easily. Feel free to swap out gummy worms for another fun candy or use gluten-free cookies if that’s a must in your household. I sometimes jazz it up with extra crushed nuts for crunch, too.

• Variation: For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk instead of whole milk; the pudding will be just as creamy but with a subtle coconut flavor that pairs surprisingly well with chocolate.
• Variation: I once swapped gummy worms for mini marshmallows and added a handful of chocolate chips between the layers for extra texture and sweetness.
• Variation: If you want a layered trifle vibe, add a layer of strawberries or raspberries for a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Variation: Use chocolate sandwich cookies with different fillings (like peanut butter) to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

How to Make Homemade Dirt Pudding with Oreo Cookies and Gummy Worms Recipe

Step 1: Whisk dry ingredients and slowly incorporate the milk

Start by whisking together your sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. The key here is to whisk everything evenly so no lumps sneak in later. Then, while whisking continuously, slowly pour in the milk. This slow addition helps the dry ingredients blend seamlessly so your pudding comes out smooth and creamy. I recommend medium heat to keep everything controlled—rush it by cranking the heat, and you might end up with clumps or pudding that won’t thicken properly.

Step 2: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and thicken

This is where patience really pays off. It usually takes about 10 minutes for the pudding to thicken. You’ll first see bubbles form around the edges, and then eventually bubbles will appear right in the center. The moment you see that, whisk constantly for one full minute to cook out the starchy flavor. You’ll know it’s ready when the pudding thickly coats the back of your spoon and doesn’t drip off. Resist turning up the heat to speed this up—slow and steady wins every time.

Step 3: Finish with butter and vanilla, then chill

Remove the pan from heat and whisk in your softened butter and vanilla extract until the pudding is silky and smooth. Pour the pudding into a heatproof bowl and let it rest for 5 minutes—this little rest helps the pudding cool down just enough. Then, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the pudding’s surface to stop a skin from forming on top. Chill in the fridge for about an hour. I like to check on it here because the pudding will still be a bit loose—this is perfect for layering in cups.

Step 4: Crush Oreos and prepare the layers

While the pudding chills, pop your Oreos into a food processor or blender and pulse them into fine crumbs. This is the “dirt” that gives the pudding its signature look and texture. I find it easy to save a little extra crushed Oreo for the very top to sprinkle over the gummy worms later.

Step 5: Assemble your dirt pudding cups

The layering is where the fun really starts. Grab your favorite clear cups, dessert glasses, or even a 9-inch baking pan. Start with about 2 tablespoons of Oreo crumbs at the bottom of each cup. Spoon a quarter cup of pudding on top of that, then add another layer of Oreo crumbs. Repeat with another 1/4 cup pudding and finish with a generous layer of Oreo crumbs on top. Finally, tuck 2-3 gummy worms right into the final Oreo “dirt” layer—this is always the kids’ (and my) favorite part!

Step 6: Chill and serve

Pop your assembled cups into the fridge uncovered for 3 hours or up to 48 hours. This chilling time allows the pudding to firm up perfectly while the flavors meld together. Before serving, you can add a few more gummy worms or even a mini decorative shovel if you want to get extra playful!

How to Serve Homemade Dirt Pudding with Oreo Cookies and Gummy Worms Recipe

Garnishes

I always top my dirt pudding with extra gummy worms because, let’s face it, they’re the best part! Sometimes I add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of extra crushed Oreos to make things look even more inviting. For a party, colorful paper straws alongside the cups add a fun vibe.

Side Dishes

This dirt pudding stands out all on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, I like fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast. It also pairs beautifully with simple brownies or chocolate-dipped pretzels.

Creative Ways to Present

For Halloween or kid’s parties, I’ve used small terracotta pots lined with parchment to “plant” the pudding, topping with candy rocks and gummy worms burrowing through. Another fun idea is layering it in a giant clear trifle bowl so guests can see all the layers—it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover dirt pudding cups covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. You want to make sure the plastic wrap or lids are sealed well so the pudding doesn’t absorb fridge smells. The Oreo crumbs on top stay delightfully crunchy if stored right.

Freezing

Freezing this pudding isn’t my favorite because the texture changes a bit once thawed, and the Oreo crumbs can get soggy. However, if you want to freeze, do so before adding the gummy worms and Oreos on top, and allow it to thaw slowly overnight in the fridge. Then add the toppings fresh before serving.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is unnecessary. But if your pudding gets too firm in the fridge, just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving so it softens to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making this Homemade Dirt Pudding with Oreo Cookies and Gummy Worms Recipe always feels like a little celebration in my kitchen. I love how the creamy homemade pudding pairs perfectly with the crunchy Oreo crumbs and those silly gummy worms that bring so much joy. It’s simple, fun, and guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face—trust me, your family and friends will go crazy for it! So grab some Oreos, gummy worms, and that cocoa powder, and let’s get digging into happiness.

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