Dirt Cake is the ultimate indulgent dessert that layers rich chocolate cake, fudge, creamy pudding, and crushed Oreos to create a sweet treat everyone will love. It’s a fun, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a special family treat. With its irresistible flavor and texture, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how Dirt Cake is a crowd-pleaser that combines so many delicious elements—chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and a crunchy Oreo topping. It’s easy to make, and the best part is how fun and customizable it is. You can make it in just about an hour, and it’s perfect for serving at any occasion. It’s a comforting, nostalgic dessert that both kids and adults enjoy!
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake Layer:
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1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the back of the box)
For the Pudding Layer:
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12.8 oz hot fudge
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3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix
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1 ¾ cups milk
For the Topping:
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30 Oreos, crushed
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3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix
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1 ¾ cups milk
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8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
directions
Cake Layer:
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I prepare the chocolate cake as directed on the box and bake it in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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Once the cake is done, I remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
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Using the end of a spoon, I poke holes evenly all over the cake.
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I warm the hot fudge in the microwave until it’s thin enough to pour, then evenly pour it over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
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I let the cake cool completely.
Pudding Layer:
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In a medium bowl, I mix the chocolate pudding mix with the 1 ¾ cups of milk until well combined.
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Before the pudding sets fully, I pour it on top of the cooled cake.
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I place the cake in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 20 minutes.
Topping:
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In another medium bowl, I combine the remaining package of chocolate pudding mix with the remaining 1 ¾ cups of milk.
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I refrigerate this mixture to allow it to set fully for about 10 minutes.
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After the pudding sets, I fold in the thawed Cool Whip until it’s smooth and creamy.
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I mix in about ¾ of the crushed Oreos and spread this pudding mixture evenly on top of the chilled cake.
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I sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top for a crunchy, delicious finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 16 servings.
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 55 minutes
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert can be enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is necessary. It can also be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge for even more flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Yes! You can swap the chocolate pudding for vanilla or even cheesecake pudding for a different twist on the flavor.
2. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make this gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that the pudding mix and Cool Whip are also gluten-free.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Dirt Cake actually gets better the longer it sits. You can make it a day in advance and let it chill overnight for the flavors to meld.
4. What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract to reach stiff peaks, and fold it into the pudding mixture.
5. How do I keep the Oreos from getting soggy?
Make sure to refrigerate the cake after layering the pudding and topping. This helps keep the Oreos crunchy until serving.
6. Can I use a different type of cake?
You can swap out the chocolate cake for any flavor you prefer, like vanilla or even a spice cake for a different flavor profile.
7. How do I make this dessert more decadent?
Add a layer of chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or caramel drizzle for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Can I use a different pan size?
This recipe works best in a 9×13-inch pan, but you can adjust the ingredients to fit a different size. If using a smaller pan, you may need to reduce the quantities slightly.
9. Can I freeze Dirt Cake?
Yes—you can freeze Dirt Cake for up to 1 month. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.
10. What should I serve this with?
Dirt Cake is great on its own, but it pairs well with a cold glass of milk, hot chocolate, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Conclusion
Dirt Cake is a nostalgic and indulgent dessert that everyone loves! With its chocolate cake base, creamy pudding, and crunchy Oreo topping, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, party, or just enjoying it at home, it’s sure to be a hit every time!
Print
Dirt Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This indulgent Oreo Dirt Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert made with layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy fudge, chocolate pudding, and crushed Oreos. It’s the ultimate sweet treat, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the back of the box)
For the Pudding Layer:
12.8 oz hot fudge
3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix
1 ¾ cup milk
For the Topping:
30 Oreos, crushed
3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix
1 ¾ cup milk
8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
Follow the instructions on the cake mix box to prepare and bake the cake. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Poke Holes in Cake:
Use the back of a spoon to poke holes evenly across the cooled cake.
Add Hot Fudge:
Warm the hot fudge in the microwave until it’s thin enough to pour. Evenly pour the fudge over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
Make the Pudding Layer:
In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate pudding mix with 1 ¾ cups of milk. Before the pudding sets fully, pour it over the cooled cake. Chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes.
Prepare the Topping:
In another medium bowl, combine the second package of pudding mix with 1 ¾ cups of milk. Refrigerate until fully set, about 10 minutes.
Add Cool Whip:
After the pudding sets, fold in the thawed Cool Whip. Mix in ¾ of the crushed Oreos. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cake.
Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top of the cake. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
