Easter is the perfect time for fun, delicious food, and gathering with family and friends. One dessert that stands out during our Easter celebrations is this no-bake Easter Dirt Cake. With a decadent Oreo crust, a rich chocolate cheesecake filling, and topped with festive Easter candies and Peeps, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and sure to delight everyone!
Why This Recipe Works
This Easter Dirt Cake has everything we love in a dessert: rich, creamy, and indulgent. The Oreo crust offers the perfect crunch to balance the smooth, airy chocolate cheesecake filling. It’s simple to make and doesn’t require any baking, making it perfect for those who need a quick, delicious dessert. And the fun toppings add a playful touch for the holiday!
What You Will Need
Ingredients
- 1 (15.5 oz) package Oreo cookies, crushed
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 cups milk
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
- 12 oz Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 cup Easter M&M’s
- 20 Peeps marshmallows
- Edible green grass (optional, or use colored coconut)
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
How to Make Easter Dirt Cake
Step 1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and well-combined.
Step 2. Mix the Chocolate Pudding
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant chocolate pudding mix until smooth and well-blended.
Step 3. Combine Pudding and Cream Cheese
Add the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
Step 4. Fold in the Cool Whip
Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the chocolate cream cheese mixture using a spatula until the filling is light and airy.
Step 5. Assemble the Cake
Press half of the crushed Oreos into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base. Top with the chocolate filling, then sprinkle the remaining Oreos on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Step 6. Add Toppings
Once the cake has chilled, decorate the top with Easter M&M’s, one Peep marshmallow on each slice, and edible green grass (or colored coconut) for a fun, festive touch.
Note: You can make this dessert ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Tips and Tricks
- If you prefer, you can use golden Oreos or red velvet Oreos for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Peanut butter Oreos also add an extra layer of flavor.
- Don’t have edible grass? Simply color shredded coconut with green food coloring for a quick and easy alternative.
- For a different topping, try using other Easter-themed candies like jelly beans, chocolate bunnies, or sprinkles.
- You can also add a touch of vanilla extract to the filling if you want a subtle flavor enhancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this Easter Dirt Cake up to a day ahead of time. Just be sure to add the candy decorations right before serving.
Can I use homemade chocolate pudding instead of instant mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer a more homemade touch, feel free to use your favorite homemade chocolate pudding recipe instead of the instant mix. Just make sure it’s thickened and cooled before mixing with the cream cheese.
How should I store the leftovers?
Leftover Easter Dirt Cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on keeping it longer, remove some of the candy decorations before storing, as they may not hold up well over time.
Summary
This Easter Dirt Cake is an indulgent and fun dessert that’s perfect for your Easter celebration. With a crunchy Oreo base, creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, and playful Peeps on top, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s no-bake, making it an easy option for busy days.
Easter Dirt Cake Recipe: A No-Bake Delight for Your Celebration
Ingredients
1 (15.5 oz) package Oreo cookies, crushed
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
3 cups milk
2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
12 oz Cool Whip, thawed
1 cup Easter M&M’s
20 Peeps marshmallows
Edible green grass (optional, or use colored coconut)
Directions
- Cream together butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar.
- Mix milk and pudding, then combine with cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in Cool Whip and assemble in a 9×13-inch dish with crushed Oreos, pudding mixture, and more Oreos on top.
- Refrigerate for 2 hours, then decorate with M&M’s, Peeps, and edible grass before serving.
