Dirt cups with gummy worms are a fun and tasty treat! With layers of chocolate pudding, crushed cookies, and sweet gummy worms, they look as playful as they taste.
These cups are perfect for kids’ parties or any time you want a little fun in your dessert! I can’t help but smile every time I dig into one—those gummy worms always make me giggle! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Pudding Mix: This is a key player for that rich chocolate flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you can make your own pudding from scratch using cocoa powder, sugar, and cornstarch. It may take a bit longer, but the taste is worth it!
Heavy Cream: The heavy cream adds that luscious whipped texture. If you’re watching calories, try using a lighter whipped topping instead. You could also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option!
Oreo Cookies: Oreos provide that iconic “dirt” look and flavor, but feel free to swap them out for any chocolate sandwich cookies you like. Gluten-free options are available if needed!
Gummy Worms: These are what make this treat extra fun! If you want a different look, you can use gummy frogs or even chocolate-covered candies instead. They’ll still give a playful touch!
How Do I Get Creamy, Light Whipped Cream?
A key step in making your dirt cups is whipping the cream to the right consistency. Here’s how to achieve that perfect fluffy texture:
- Start with cold cream—chill your mixing bowl too! Cold cream whips better.
- Combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla in the bowl.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer and beat on medium-high speed.
- Watch closely; as soft peaks form, slow down. You’re aiming for stiff peaks—when the whisk leaves a trail in the cream, it’s ready!
- Be careful not to over-mix, or you’ll end up with butter!
Following these tips will ensure your dirt cups are light and delicious. Enjoy making your dessert! 🍰
Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pudding:
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers:
- 20 Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies)
- 1 package gummy worms (about 20 worms)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and delicious dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need at least 30 minutes to chill the cups before serving, bringing the total time to approximately 45 minutes. Perfect for a little while spent in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chocolate Pudding:
Start by preparing the chocolate pudding. In a mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with 3 cups of cold milk. Whisk it together until it’s smooth and completely combined. Then, pop it in the fridge for about 5 minutes to set.
2. Crush the Oreos:
While the pudding sets, it’s time to make your “dirt.” Place the Oreo cookies in a large zip-top bag and seal it. Use a rolling pin to crush the cookies until they look like coarse dirt. Be sure to have some fun with this step! Set your crushed cookies aside for later.
3. Whip the Cream:
Next, in a clean mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until stiff peaks form and it becomes fluffy. This will give your dirt cups a nice creamy layer!
4. Combine Pudding and Whipped Cream:
Now it’s time to lighten up the pudding. Gently fold about half of the whipped cream into the chocolate pudding. This will give it a delightful mousse-like texture. Make sure not to overmix—just blend it until you have a nice smooth mixture.
5. Layer the Cups:
Start assembling your dirt cups! Take clear cups, and in the bottom of each one, add a spoonful of the chocolate pudding mixture. This will be your first layer.
6. Add Crushed Oreos:
On top of the pudding, sprinkle a layer of your crushed Oreos. This is where the “dirt” look comes from, so don’t be shy with this step!
7. Whipped Cream Layer:
Next, add a layer of the remaining whipped cream over the crushed Oreos. This will create a beautiful creamy texture contrasting with the chocolate and cookie layers.
8. Repeat the Layers:
Continue layering by repeating the process: add more pudding, then more crushed Oreos, and finish with a thick layer of crushed Oreos on top to look like a dirt mound.
9. Gummy Worm Decoration:
Now comes the fun part! Stick 2-3 gummy worms into the top layer of crushed Oreos, letting them stand upright or curl out from the “dirt.” They’ll look like they’ve just crawled out of the dirt!
10. Chill Before Serving:
Cover your dirt cups with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together and makes for a chilled treat!
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, your dirt cups are ready to serve! Enjoy this playful dessert with friends and family—everyone will love digging into these yummy cups of fun!
Can I Use Different Pudding Flavors?
Absolutely! While chocolate pudding gives that classic “dirt” look, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even butterscotch for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the classic look may change!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure any gummy worms are still fresh before serving again, as they can become sticky over time.
Can I Make These Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pudding and whipped cream a day in advance. Just assemble the dirt cups on the day you plan to serve them to keep the layers looking fresh and appealing. Chilling them overnight will enhance the flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with a whipped topping or even use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just whip it up the same way as the heavy cream for a delicious alternative!