Dirt Cake Recipe

Introduction

Dirt Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and crunchy Oreos to create a treat that looks like a garden bed filled with dirt. It’s perfect for parties, kids’ events, or whenever you want a playful twist on classic chocolate flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients as listed on box)
• 12.8 oz hot fudge
• 3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix (divided)
• 3 1/2 cups milk (divided)
• 30 Oreos, crushed
• 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box. Bake it and allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes once done.
2. Step 2: Use the end of a spoon to poke holes evenly all over the warm cake.
3. Step 3: Warm the hot fudge in the microwave until it is thin enough to pour. Pour it evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
4. Step 4: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the next layer.
5. Step 5: In a medium bowl, mix half of the chocolate pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups of milk. Pour this pudding layer evenly over the cooled cake.
6. Step 6: Place the cake in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 20 minutes to set the pudding layer.
7. Step 7: In a separate bowl, combine the remaining pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups milk. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes until it begins to set fully.
8. Step 8: Remove the pudding mixture from the refrigerator and gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until smooth.
9. Step 9: Mix about three-quarters of the crushed Oreos into the pudding and Cool Whip mixture.
10. Step 10: Spread this topping evenly over the chilled cake and pudding layer.
11. Step 11: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top as a garnish.
12. Step 12: Refrigerate the dessert for at least another hour before serving to allow all the layers to set together.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, brush the cake with a little milk or coffee before adding the hot fudge.
• Use different flavored pudding or cookie varieties to switch up the flavors.
• Add gummy worms on top for an even more playful “dirt” cake effect.
• If you prefer, prepare the dessert in individual cups or jars for easy serving.

Storage

Store the Dirt Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, serve chilled. Reheat is not recommended as it can make the pudding layers lose their consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Dirt Cake ahead of time?

Yes, Dirt Cake actually tastes better after resting for a few hours or overnight because the flavors meld together and the layers set nicely.

Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed cake mix?

Absolutely! A moist homemade chocolate cake will work just as well and can add an extra personal touch to your dessert.

Dirt Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 132 reviews

This Dirt Cake recipe is a fun and delicious dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake base, layered with creamy chocolate pudding, gooey hot fudge, and topped with a fluffy whipped mixture and crushed Oreos. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat, this cake combines moist cake, smooth puddings, and crunchy cookie topping for a playful, indulgent dessert.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients as directed on the box)
• 12.8 oz hot fudge

Pudding Layers

• 3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix
• 1 3/4 cup milk, divided (for pudding layers)

Topping

• 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
• 30 Oreos, crushed (divided: about 3/4 for mixing, remainder for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare Cake: Follow the directions on the chocolate cake mix box to prepare the batter and bake the cake as instructed. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Poke Holes: Using the end of a spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the warm cake to allow for the fudge to seep in.
3. Add Hot Fudge: Warm the hot fudge in the microwave until it is thin enough to pour easily. Pour the hot fudge evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the poked holes. Allow the cake to cool completely.
4. Prepare Pudding Layer: In a medium bowl, mix one package of chocolate instant pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups of milk. Pour this pudding layer over the cooled cake before the pudding sets and place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for about 20 minutes.
5. Prepare Topping: In another medium bowl, mix the second package of pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups of milk and refrigerate for about 10 minutes to set fully.
6. Add Cool Whip: Remove the set pudding from the refrigerator and fold in the thawed Cool Whip until well combined.
7. Assemble Topping: Mix about three-quarters of the crushed Oreos into the pudding and Cool Whip mixture. Spread this evenly over the chilled pudding layer on the cake.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top of the pudding layer as a decorative and crunchy finishing touch.
9. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dirt cake until ready to serve for best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Use room temperature or slightly cooled cake before adding puddings to avoid melting the pudding layers.
• Warm the hot fudge just enough to make it pourable; overheating can make it too runny.
• Chilling times help puddings set properly, which ensures distinct layers and a neat slice.
• Crush Oreos to your preferred size for varying texture on the topping.
• This cake can be made a day in advance to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Keywords: Dirt cake, chocolate cake, chocolate pudding, hot fudge, Oreo topping, layered dessert