Print

Cozy Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms

Cozy Halloween Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms - featured image

These no-bake Halloween dirt cups are a fun and easy dessert made with layers of chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in, they come together in under 20 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 (14.3 oz) package Oreo cookies (about 24 cookies)
  • 1 (4 oz) bag gummy worms
  • Optional: 4-6 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed finer for top garnish
  • 6 to 8 small clear plastic cups (about 5 oz each)

Instructions

  1. Crush the Oreos: Place the entire package of Oreos (cream filling and all) in a large zip-top bag. Seal tight and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs (a mix of fine powder and tiny pebbles). Set aside about 1/4 cup of the finest crumbs for the top garnish.
  2. Make the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
  3. Layer the cups: Start with a layer of crushed Oreos at the bottom of each cup—about 2 tablespoons per cup. Press it down gently with the back of a spoon.
  4. Add the pudding: Spoon or pour the chocolate pudding over the Oreo layer, filling each cup about halfway. Tap the cup gently on the counter to settle the pudding and remove air bubbles.
  5. Add the worms: Stick 2 or 3 gummy worms into the pudding layer, letting them poke out at odd angles. Don’t push them all the way in.
  6. Top with more ‘dirt’: Sprinkle another layer of crushed Oreos over the pudding, covering it completely. Use about 2 tablespoons per cup. Use the reserved fine crumbs for a nicer finish.
  7. Add the final worms: Poke 1 or 2 more gummy worms into the top layer of crumbs, arranging them to look like they’re emerging from the dirt.
  8. Chill: Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve cold: Enjoy straight from the fridge.

Notes

For best results, use cold milk and let the pudding set fully before layering. The chilling step is non-negotiable for proper texture. To keep gummy worms from getting soggy, place them into the pudding layer and cover with crumbs. For dairy-free, use oat milk or full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free pudding mix. For gluten-free, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies. These are best enjoyed the day they are made but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween dirt cups, gummy worms, chocolate pudding, Oreo dessert, no-bake, easy Halloween dessert, kids party treat