If you’re hunting for a treat that’s as festive as it is irresistible, look no further than Easter Dirt Cake. This whimsical, no-bake dessert layers lush vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and buttery Oreo crumbs, then tops it all with sweet green coconut “grass” and cheerful Easter candies. It’s pure springtime joy, guaranteed to make guests of all ages smile—whether you serve it up family-style or in adorable individual cups.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the simple magic behind Easter Dirt Cake! Each ingredient brings a burst of fun, flavor, or color, and together they create that dreamy, creamy-yet-crunchy dessert every bunny craves on Easter Sunday. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you shouldn’t skip a single one.

Oreo cookies (14.3 oz package): These chocolate sandwich cookies are crushed to mimic “dirt” while bringing iconic flavor and a wonderfully crisp crunch.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): For a tangy richness that balances out the sweetness and creates a silkier pudding layer.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup, softened): Adds creaminess and depth, helping the filling set up perfectly.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling gently and melts beautifully into the creamy base.
Vanilla pudding mix (two 3.4 oz packages): Delivers a sweet, custardy backdrop—instant pudding keeps this recipe speedy and fail-proof!
Cold milk (2 ½ cups): Used to thicken the pudding, with just enough to keep it spoonable but decadent.
Whipped topping (12 oz container): Adds lightness and airy fluff, keeping the cake luscious.
Green food coloring: A few drops transform shredded coconut into playful, edible “grass.”
Shredded sweetened coconut (1 cup): For flavor, color, and a realistic grassy effect on top of the cake.
Pastel-colored candy eggs or bunny candies: The show-stopping Easter decorations—choose your favorites to make your cake pop!

How to Make Easter Dirt Cake

Step 1: Crush the Oreo Cookies

Place your Oreo cookies in a food processor and blitz them into fine crumbs, or pop them in a sturdy zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. What you’re creating here is your “dirt” layer, so go for a nice, even crumb. Set aside half for the bottom and half for the delicious top layer.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy, fluffy, and smooth—no lumps allowed. This silky base will become the heart of your Easter Dirt Cake and set it apart from ordinary pudding desserts.

Step 3: Make the Pudding

In a separate bowl, whisk together both packs of instant vanilla pudding with the cold milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens, then let it rest a minute or two so it’s super lush and not watery.

Step 4: Combine the Layers

Gently fold the thickened vanilla pudding into the cream cheese mixture until everything is combined. Next, fold in the whipped topping. Take your time with this step—the idea is to keep everything airy and soft so the final dish melts in your mouth.

Step 5: Tint and Toss the Coconut

Add a few drops of green food coloring to your shredded coconut in a small bowl, then toss until every strand is coated a vibrant, grassy green. This “edible grass” is the signature of our Easter Dirt Cake and adds delightful texture on top.

Step 6: Layer and Decorate

Grab a 9×13-inch dish or a trifle bowl. Sprinkle half the Oreo crumbs as the first layer, then gently spread the pudding mixture overtop. Sprinkle the rest of the Oreo crumbs for a “fresh dirt” finish. Complete with the green coconut grass, and nestle pastel eggs or bunny candies across the top. Chill for at least 2 hours—this wait is tough, but trust me, it’s worth it for all the flavors to meld together.

How to Serve Easter Dirt Cake

Garnishes

The crowning glory of any Easter Dirt Cake is how you finish it: scatter the green coconut grass generously, then go wild with those pastel candy eggs, marshmallow bunnies, or even gummy worms if you’re feeling playful. For extra pizazz, a few edible flowers or sprinkles can really make each slice look like a miniature spring garden.

Side Dishes

Serve Easter Dirt Cake alongside a platter of fresh-cut fruit, tangy lemon bars, or an easy fruit salad to lighten things up between forkfuls of cream and “dirt.” If you’re pairing with drinks, a tart lemonade or a soft floral tea complements the sweet, creamy layers beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the big dish! Use mason jars or clear plastic cups to make single-serve Easter Dirt Cakes—the perfect grab-and-go treat for kids or parties. You can even layer the ingredients in flowerpots (just line them with food-safe plastic first) for a garden-themed centerpiece that’s both edible and adorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easter Dirt Cake keeps wonderfully in the fridge—just cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a stress-free make-ahead dessert for your holiday festivities.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, though it may slightly alter the creamy texture. If you do freeze, wrap individual portions tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight. Candies and coconut toppings are best added fresh after thawing to keep them vibrant and crunchy.

Reheating

Good news—no reheating is needed! This is a chilled, no-bake treat. If the cake’s been frozen, let it defrost in the fridge until it’s back to its cool, creamy self before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla?

Absolutely! Chocolate pudding brings a deeper cocoa flavor and makes your Easter Dirt Cake even more decadent. It’s a fun twist that adults and kids alike will adore.

How far in advance can I make Easter Dirt Cake?

For best results, make Easter Dirt Cake up to one day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate—it gives the flavors time to meld and the cookies a perfect, cake-like texture.

What can I substitute for Oreo cookies?

If Oreos aren’t your thing, try chocolate graham crackers or any other chocolate sandwich cookie. The key is a crunchy, chocolatey base for that authentic “dirt” texture.

Is there a way to make this dessert gluten free?

Definitely! Swap in gluten-free chocolate cookies (there are plenty of options these days) and double-check your pudding mix and candies for hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I make this dessert without coconut?

You sure can! If coconut isn’t your jam, pipe green-colored buttercream or simply use green-tinted sprinkles for the grassy effect. Your Easter Dirt Cake will still be full of springtime cheer!

Final Thoughts

If you want to create a dessert that makes every guest light up with delight, you can’t go wrong with Easter Dirt Cake. It’s colorful, irresistibly creamy, and secretly so simple—a guaranteed showstopper that brings extra sweetness to your spring celebrations. Give it a try this year and savor every playful, joyous spoonful!

Easter Dirt Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Easter Dirt Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for spring celebrations. Layers of creamy pudding, crushed Oreos, and whimsical decorations make this a fun and easy treat for Easter gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Oreo Cookie Layer:

1 (14.3 oz) package Oreo cookies

Cream Cheese Mixture:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar

Pudding Layer:

2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
2 ½ cups cold milk
1 (12 oz) container whipped topping

Decorations:

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

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Instructions

Crush the Oreo cookies: Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Set aside.
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Make Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk the pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
Color the Coconut: In a small bowl, mix shredded coconut with a few drops of green food coloring until evenly coated to resemble grass.
Assemble the Cake: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed Oreos on the bottom, then spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos over the pudding layer. Top with green coconut ‘grass’ and decorate with candy eggs and bunnies.
Chill and Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

You can serve this in individual cups or jars for a fun, portable option.
Swap in chocolate pudding for a richer flavor, or use lemon pudding for a spring twist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American