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Best Easy Halloween Dirt Cups: No-Bake Gummy Worm Dessert

Halloween dirt cups - featured image

These no-bake Halloween dirt cups with gummy worms are a quick, kid-friendly dessert that comes together in about 15 minutes. Creamy chocolate pudding, crunchy Oreo “dirt,” and wiggly gummy worms create a spooky treat perfect for parties and classroom celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 family-size package (about 36 cookies) Oreo cookies
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
  • 1 bag gummy worms
  • Halloween-themed sprinkles, candy eyeballs, or crushed graham crackers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the chocolate pudding: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of cold whole milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. If using an electric mixer, beat on low speed for 1 minute. Refrigerate while preparing the Oreos.
  2. Crush the Oreos: Place the entire package of Oreos into a large zip-top bag, seal, and crush with a rolling pin into fine crumbs with some larger pieces. Alternatively, pulse in a food processor. Set aside about 1/4 cup for garnish.
  3. Optional butter step: If using melted butter, drizzle over crushed Oreos and toss with a fork until evenly distributed.
  4. Layer the cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crushed Oreos into the bottom of each clear plastic cup. Press down gently with the back of a spoon.
  5. Add the pudding: Spoon or pipe about 3-4 tablespoons of pudding over the Oreo layer, filling the cup about halfway. Tap the cup gently to settle.
  6. Insert the gummy worms: Push 2-3 gummy worms partway into the pudding, letting the other ends stick up. Add a few worms pressed against the sides of the cup.
  7. Top with more pudding and dirt: Add another layer of pudding, filling the cup almost to the top. Sprinkle a generous layer of crushed Oreos over the top. Tap again to settle.
  8. Final decorations: Stick one more gummy worm on top, partially buried in the Oreo crumbs. Add optional sprinkles, candy eyeballs, or crushed graham crackers.
  9. Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; add top Oreo layer and final worm just before serving.
  10. Sensory cues: Pudding should be thick enough not to run when tilted. Oreo layer should be crumbly, not soggy. Worms should stay put without sinking.

Notes

For best texture, use whole milk and regular Oreos. Let pudding set slightly before adding worms to prevent sinking. Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies and dairy-free with almond milk. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days; freeze for up to 2 months (texture will change).

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween dirt cups, no-bake dessert, gummy worm dessert, chocolate pudding cups, easy Halloween treat, kid-friendly dessert