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Crowd-Pleasing Pumpkin Patch Dirt Pudding Cups

Pumpkin patch dirt pudding cups - featured image
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These no-bake Pumpkin Patch Dirt Pudding Cups feature a creamy pumpkin pudding layer, crunchy Oreo ‘dirt,’ and gummy worms for a fun fall dessert that’s perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving, or any autumn gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold milk (whole milk preferred, 2% works)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies (regular, not double stuff)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 cup Cool Whip or whipped topping, thawed
  • Gummy worms for decoration
  • Optional: candy pumpkins, fall sprinkles, or crushed graham crackers for extra decoration

Instructions

  1. Crush the Oreos: Place all Oreos (cream filling included) in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. Alternatively, put them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. You want about 2 cups of crumbs total. Set aside 1/4 cup for the final topping.
  2. Mix the cream cheese base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  3. Prepare the pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Let it sit for 3-4 minutes to fully thicken.
  4. Combine the layers: Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth. Then fold in the prepared pudding until everything is well combined.
  5. Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until no white streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  6. Layer the cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of Oreo crumbs into the bottom of each cup. Press down lightly. Add a generous layer of the pumpkin pudding mixture (about 1/4 cup per cup). Smooth the top.
  7. Top with dirt: Sprinkle the remaining Oreo crumbs over the top of each cup, using about 1-2 tablespoons per cup, covering the pumpkin layer completely.
  8. Decorate: Stick a gummy worm or two into the top of each cup. Add candy pumpkins or fall sprinkles if desired.
  9. Chill: Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours before serving. Overnight is even better.

Notes

Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s crucial for the texture to set properly. Make sure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and coconut milk. For gluten-free, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies. These cups can be made a day in advance; add gummy worms just before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin dessert, dirt pudding cups, Halloween dessert, no-bake dessert, fall dessert, pumpkin pudding, Oreo dessert, gummy worms, kid-friendly dessert

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/crowd-pleasing-pumpkin-patch-dirt-pudding-cups/