Are you ready to delight everyone at your holiday table with an irresistibly fun and festive treat? The Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is not only a visual showstopper with its layers of creamy, dreamy filling and playful garnishes, but it’s also an absolute breeze to whip up. This no-bake dessert features a base of buttery Golden Oreo crumbs, luscious vanilla pudding, and sweet whipped topping, all sprinkled with coconut “grass” and pastel candy eggs for a whimsical touch. Whether you’re celebrating with kids, adults, or the whole family, this dessert guarantees smiles and happy taste buds.

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how straightforward yet essential these ingredients are. Each one adds to the magic of the final Easter Dirt Cake Casserole — from the golden crunch in the crust to the “spring grass” on top. Get ready for a dessert that’s bursting with both texture and color!

Golden Oreos (1 package, 14 oz): Crush them up for a perfectly sweet and crunchy base (and topping!) that holds your layers together.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): This binds the cookie crumbs, transforming them into a deliciously rich crust.
Cream cheese (1 package, 8 oz, softened): Adds creamy tang to balance the sweetness in every bite.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens that silky cream cheese layer without any graininess.
Whipped topping (1 container, 12 oz, thawed): Ensures fluffiness in both cream cheese and pudding layers, making the casserole airy and light.
Instant vanilla pudding mix (2 packages, 3.4 oz each): Quick-setting and rich — these blends are the backbone of the dreamy custard layer.
Cold milk (2 1/2 cups): Activates and thickens the pudding mixes in a flash.
Shredded sweetened coconut (1 cup): The texture and gentle sweetness mimic spring grass for a festive presentation.
Green food coloring: Just a few drops bring your coconut grass to life with a pop of color.
Pastel candy eggs or bunny-shaped candies: Sprinkle these on top for the finishing Easter touch that makes everyone smile.

How to Make Easter Dirt Cake Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Start by crushing the Golden Oreos in a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and giving them a good bash with a rolling pin. Aim for fine, even crumbs. Pour in your melted butter and mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are coated. This mixture gets pressed firmly into the base of your 9×13-inch baking dish — setting the stage for all the creamy layers to come.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, creamy, and totally lump-free. Now gently fold in half of your whipped topping — try not to overmix, as you want this layer to stay light and fluffy. Once combined, spread this mixture over your cookie crust, creating a pillowy white layer that adds tangy richness.

Step 3: Whip Up the Pudding Layer

Grab a fresh bowl and whisk the instant vanilla pudding mixes with the cold milk for about 2-3 minutes, just until the mixture starts to thicken. Add in the rest of your whipped topping and fold everything together until perfectly smooth. Carefully spread this creamy pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer — it’s a double layer of decadent goodness!

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining crushed Golden Oreos over the top, giving you that classic dirt cake “soil” look. For the grass, place sweetened coconut in a small bowl, add a few drops of green food coloring, and toss until evenly colored. Scatter this coconut “grass” over the casserole, then have fun decorating with pastel candy eggs and bunny-shaped treats for the perfect Easter garden vibe.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Pop the whole dish into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or even overnight if making ahead). This allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s time to serve, every slice will hold its shape — plus, the anticipation will make it taste even better!

How to Serve Easter Dirt Cake Casserole

Garnishes

Don’t skimp on those finishing touches! A scatter of extra green coconut “grass,” a handful of pastel candy eggs, and maybe even a few whimsical bunny candies will transform your Easter Dirt Cake Casserole into a showpiece. If you’re feeling playful, you can even add edible flowers or a dusting of edible glitter for extra sparkle.

Side Dishes

Since Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a sweet centerpiece, pair it with light, fresh options like fruit salad or tangy lemon bars. If you’re serving a buffet, this casserole plays nicely alongside carrot cake, hot cross buns, or a platter of fresh strawberries for a cheerful dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

While the classic 9×13-inch pan is always a hit, try assembling your Easter Dirt Cake Casserole in clear trifle bowls, individual mason jars, or small cups for adorable single-servings at your party. Personalizing each portion with a unique candy egg or bunny makes each serving feel extra special, and perfect for little hands or party-goers who want to grab and go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Easter Dirt Cake Casserole should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. The layers will stay fresh, creamy, and moist for up to 3 days, so it’s a fantastic make-ahead treat. Just note that after a few days, the cookie crumbs may soften a bit but the flavors will still be delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze the undecorated casserole by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding your coconut grass and candies — this helps keep toppings crisp and vibrant. While the texture may change slightly, it’ll still satisfy those dessert cravings!

Reheating

No need to heat anything! Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is wonderfully served chilled straight from the fridge. If you’re enjoying leftovers that have been in the refrigerator for a day or two, just let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften for the best creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate Oreos instead of Golden Oreos?

Absolutely! Chocolate Oreos will give your Easter Dirt Cake Casserole a more classic dirt cake vibe, adding a rich cocoa flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy layers and sweet toppings.

What can I substitute for whipped topping?

If you prefer not to use store-bought whipped topping, you can make your own by whipping heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar. It gives a homemade twist and a delightfully airy texture.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap in gluten-free sandwich cookies for the Golden Oreos and double-check that your pudding and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free to make the casserole safe for everyone.

How far in advance can I assemble the Easter Dirt Cake Casserole?

You can easily make the whole dessert a day ahead. In fact, letting it chill overnight actually helps the layers set and the flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more irresistible.

How can I make the coconut “grass” if someone doesn’t like coconut?

If coconut isn’t a favorite, try using green-tinted white chocolate shavings or even edible Easter grass made of wafer paper, which you can usually find in the holiday baking aisle.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together fun, flavor, and a burst of festive color, the Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re whipping it up with little helpers or crafting an impressive finale to your holiday meal, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe year after year. Don’t wait for Easter to roll around — give it a try and prepare for instant smiles!

Easter Dirt Cake Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easter Dirt Cake Casserole is a fun and festive no-bake dessert perfect for celebrating the holiday. Layers of creamy goodness, crunchy cookies, and sweet coconut ‘grass’ make this a delightful treat for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 package (14 oz) Golden Oreos, crushed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 container (12 oz) whipped topping, thawed

For the Pudding Layer:

2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 1/2 cups cold milk

For Decoration:

1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Green food coloring
Pastel candy eggs or bunny-shaped candies for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Combine crushed Golden Oreos with melted butter, then press half of the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar, then fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread over the cookie crust.
Prepare the Pudding Layer: Whisk pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, then fold in remaining whipped topping. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
Decorate: Sprinkle remaining crushed Oreos on top. Toss shredded coconut with green food coloring and sprinkle over the casserole. Decorate with candy eggs and bunnies.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.