Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups
These easy Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups are a fun dessert that’s perfect for the season. Layers of chocolate pudding and crushed Oreos are topped with pumpkin candies that make the best fall sweet treat!
You’ll also like these Oreo Eyeballs, White Chocolate Boo Bark, and Halloween Cake Mix Cookies!
Pumpkin patch dirt cups are the ultimate fall treat that brings all the cozy vibes!
Picture this: creamy layers of rich chocolate pudding, topped with crumbled Oreos for that perfect “dirt” effect. Add some mellowcreme pumpkins and you’ve got a deliciously indulgent dessert in a cup!
This fun treat is not just a feast for the taste buds; they’re a dessert that’s perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or just a fun fall night in. If you’ve got kiddos, they’ll love helping you make (and eat) this simple dessert!
Simple to whip up and sure to impress, Halloween dirt cups are the sweet way to celebrate the season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to make: this easy dessert is perfect for seasoned bakers and kitchen newbies.
- Simple ingredients: just five ingredients is all you need to make these Halloween pudding cups.
- Fun to eat: the colorful candy pumpkins on top add a festive touch that’s perfect for a Halloween party.
- Versatile: you can customize your cups with different toppings or even swap out flavors to make it your own. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these dirt cups are a delightful way to celebrate the season!
Ingredients Needed:
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: be sure to get the instant kind, as the cook and serve version will not work in this recipe.
- Cold milk: 2% or whole milk is best.
- Frozen whipped topping: such as Cool Whip, thawed.
- Chocolate sandwich cookies: such as Oreo cookies.
- Candy pumpkins: such as mellowcreme candies.
How to Make Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups:
- Whisk: in a large bowl, whisk instant pudding mix and milk until well combined. Allow to set and then fold in whipped topping.
- Layer: add a thin layer of Oreo crumbs to the bottom of clear plastic cups, followed by a layer of pudding. Repeat with another layer of chocolate cookie crumbs and a layer of chocolate pudding, ending with crushed Oreos.
- Top: add three pumpkin candies to the tops of each cup.
How to Store:
Cover each cup with plastic wrap and store these easy pumpkin patch dirt cups in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- If you’ve added any candy decorations on top, it’s best to add those just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
The cookie crumbs will start to soften once added to the pudding, so it’s best to make these within a few hours of serving. However, you can crush the Oreo cookies and make the pudding, then store separately until ready to assemble.
Variations:
- Pumpkin Spice Pudding: Swap out the chocolate pudding for pumpkin spice pudding for an extra fall flavor.
- Gummy Worms: Add gummy worms for a more whimsical touch—perfect for a Halloween vibe!
- Green frosting: Swirl in some green frosting on top of the crushed cookies to resemble grass or a pumpkin vine.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, between layers for added crunch.
- Layered Flavors: Incorporate layers of vanilla pudding or cheesecake filling for a creamier texture.
- Different Cookies: Use crushed graham crackers or vanilla cookies instead of Oreos for a lighter twist.
- Fruit Layer: Include a layer of diced apples or pears for a fruity contrast.
Looking for More Easy Fall Desserts? I’ve Got You Covered!
- Pumpkin Mug Cake
- Apple Pretzel Bites
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
- Easy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Pumpkin Danish
- Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Apple Pie Croissants
Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups
Ingredients
- 1 (3.9 ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk, (I used 2%)
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, such Cool Whip, (thawed)
- 24 Oreo cookies, (ground into fine crumbs)
- 12 Pumpkin candies
- Green frosting, (if desired)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes until smooth. Allow to set for 5 minutes, then gently fold in whipped topping.
- Add a thin layer of crushed Oreo cookies (about 2 tablespoons) to the bottom of one cup, followed by a layer of pudding. Repeat with another layer of cookie crumbs and pudding, and then end with a third layer of cookie crumbs. Repeat with the remaining cups.
- Top each cup with three pumpkin candies and then use the green frosting to swirl vines/grass onto the cookie crumbs (if desired). Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- I used 9-ounce plastic cups for this recipe.
- Pudding cups will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- If you are making these cups ahead of time, wait to add the pumpkin candies, as they will harden in the refrigerator.
- See my tips and tricks for making these Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups above the recipe box.
