Cup of Dirt Dessert: A Fun & Nostalgic 90s Treat
Bring back the sweet nostalgia of the 90s with this easy, no-bake Cup of Dirt dessert! Made with instant chocolate pudding, Cool Whip, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms, it's a fun treat for all ages.
If you grew up in the 90s, chances are you have a fond memory of those unforgettable classroom parties, birthday bashes, or after-school snacks where Cup of Dirt made its delicious debut. This beloved no-bake dessert was a total hit with kids—and let’s be honest, adults couldn’t resist it either! Creamy chocolate pudding, fluffy cool whip, and crunchy crushed Oreos topped with playful gummy worms—it was the ultimate playful sweet treat. Whether you’re introducing it to your own kids or simply indulging in a nostalgic bite of childhood, this dessert is always a hit.
Why You'll Love This Dessert
Nostalgic and Fun: This treat brings back all the good vibes from the 90s.
Kid-Friendly and Easy: No baking required, and it’s perfect for kids to help make.
Make-Ahead Option: Great for parties and can be prepped a day ahead.
Customizable: Swap out pudding flavors or use different candy toppers.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Pudding Mixture
1 (3.9 oz) Box Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix
This forms the creamy base of the dessert. Make sure it’s instant pudding—not the cook-and-serve kind—for that perfect, quick-set texture.1 Cup Milk
A little less than the package calls for to make the pudding thicker and more mousse-like. Whole milk works best, but you can also use 2%.8 oz Cool Whip (Thawed)
Adds that light, airy texture that makes the dessert taste like a fluffy chocolate mousse. You can use any whipped topping brand, but Cool Whip is classic.
Toppings
Crushed Oreos
The “dirt”! Use a food processor for a fine crumb or crush them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin for a chunkier texture.Gummy Worms
The iconic topper. Kids love them, and they make the dessert look like edible garden soil!
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk. Whisk until the mixture starts to thicken (about 2–3 minutes). It should be smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Fold in the Cool Whip
Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip with a rubber spatula until it’s fully incorporated. The mixture should look light and airy.
Step 3: Assemble
Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture into cups or jars. Glass cups work great because they show off the layers!
Step 4: Garnish
Top each cup with a generous sprinkle of crushed Oreos. Add a few gummy worms to give that realistic “dirt and worms” look.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. They can be made up to 24 hours in advance—just add the worms right before serving to keep them fresh and chewy.
Tips & Tricks
Make it a Party Activity: Let kids build their own cups at a dessert station.
Use Mason Jars for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Switch It Up: Try vanilla pudding and golden Oreos for a fun twist.
Add Layers: Alternate layers of pudding and crushed cookies for extra texture.
Add a Label: For parties, label the jars with fun 90s-themed tags like "Bug Buffet" or "Wiggly Worm Surprise."
Why This Dessert Is a Must-Make
Cup of Dirt isn’t just a dessert—it’s a conversation starter, a fun family activity, and a trip down memory lane. It’s perfect for:
Birthday parties
School events
Halloween
Backyard BBQs
Just because it’s Tuesday!
The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible, while the playful toppings keep everyone smiling. Adults will appreciate the nostalgia, and kids will love the edible worms. What’s not to love?
Printable Recipe
Cup of Dirt Dessert
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup milk
8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
Toppings:
Crushed Oreos
Gummy worms
Directions:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk until thickened (2–3 mins).
Fold in Cool Whip until well combined.
Spoon or pipe mixture into cups or jars.
Top with crushed Oreos and gummy worms.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This Cup of Dirt dessert is the perfect blend of playful and delicious. Whether you’re creating fun memories with your kids or just reliving your 90s childhood, this treat is guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
Cup of Dirt Dessert
Bring back the sweet nostalgia of the 90s with this easy, no-bake Cup of Dirt dessert! Made with instant chocolate pudding, Cool Whip, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms, it's a fun treat for all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
- Toppings:
- Crushed Oreos
- Gummy worms
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk until thickened (2–3 mins).
- Fold in Cool Whip until well combined.
- Spoon or pipe mixture into cups or jars.
- Top with crushed Oreos and gummy worms.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @CookSnapBake or use the hashtag #CooksnapBake so I can see your dirt cups in action! And if you're looking for more fun, kid-friendly recipes, subscribe to the blog for weekly updates!
Now go dig in—literally!
Bring back the sweet nostalgia of the 90s with this easy, no-bake Cup of Dirt dessert! Made with instant chocolate pudding, Cool Whip, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms, it's a fun treat for all ages.