INTRODUCTION
Easter Dirt Cups are a fun and easy dessert. Kids love them. Adults like them too. These cups look like soil with tiny candies on top. You make them without baking. You only need pudding, cookies, and some candy bunnies and eggs. This dessert comes together fast and makes a pretty table treat for any spring party. If you want another cute treat idea for a party, try this cornucopia cups recipe for a seasonal twist.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love these Dirt Cups for many simple reasons. They are quick to make. Kids can help with the layers and the toppings. The texture is soft pudding and crunchy cookie crumbs. The candy on top makes them bright and playful. You do not need an oven, so these work on busy days. You can change the candy to match the color theme. These cups also make a great item to bring to potlucks because they travel well when chilled. For a savory party snack idea to balance sweet treats, consider making some spinach artichoke dip wonton cups as a side dish.
HOW TO MAKE Easter Dirt Cups
This recipe uses few steps. Follow them and you will have a fun dessert in a short time. Read the ingredients and the steps before you start. Set up a small assembly line if you make many cups. Work clean and keep toppings ready.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Mixing bowl for pudding
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cup for milk
- Spoon for layering
- Clear cups or small bowls for serving
- Plastic wrap or lid for chilling
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 package chocolate pudding
- 2 cups milk
- 1 package crushed Oreo cookies
- Peeps bunny (1 or more)
- Candy eggs (mini)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Prepare the chocolate pudding according to package instructions, using milk.
- In cups or bowls, layer the chocolate pudding and crushed Oreo cookies.
- Top with Peeps bunnies and candy eggs.
- Chill in the refrigerator for a while before serving. Enjoy your no-bake Easter dessert!
HOW TO SERVE Easter Dirt Cups
Serve these cups cold. Place them on a platter or on a table with other desserts. You can add a small spoon in each cup for easy eating. If you serve to kids, place the cups at their table level so they can reach them. For a mix of flavors, serve these sweet cups alongside a light savory bite, like some baked cups or crunchy bites. A simple pairing idea is a plate of warm wonton cups filled with a mild dip, such as the spinach and artichoke wonton cups, which go well with sweet treats.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easter Dirt Cups
Store the cups in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. Keep them covered with plastic wrap or a tight lid to stop the cookies from getting soggy from air. If you plan to keep them longer, do not freeze once you add the Peeps or candy eggs, as the texture can change. If you want to freeze the base, make the pudding layer without final candies and put it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge and then add fresh cookie crumbs and candy right before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Add a small spoon of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
- Use clear plastic cups so kids can see the dirt layers.
- Place a small plastic shovel as a spoon for a fun touch.
- Serve with other themed sweets to match the holiday. For example, pair these with other cute cups like a sweet cornucopia for a mixed holiday table, or offer small savory cups to balance the sweet flavors. You can link a simple idea for a themed plate with a cornucopia cups recipe that some guests will enjoy.
VARIATIONS
- Mini version: Use smaller cups and make bite-size Dirt Cups.
- Add layers: Put a thin layer of vanilla pudding between chocolate layers for contrast.
- Fruit twist: Add a few fresh berries on top for color and a fresh bite.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cookie in place of the Oreos.
- Chocolate lover: Mix in a spoon of chocolate chips into the pudding for texture.
- No-Peep option: Use small marshmallows or gummy bunnies if Peeps are not available.
- Create a “garden” theme by adding green-colored coconut flakes to mimic grass. If you want a savory counterpart to your party spread, you can add treats like spinach artichoke dip wonton cups to round out the menu.
FAQs
Q: How long do Dirt Cups last in the fridge?
A: Keep them in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Cover them well to keep the cookie crumbs crisp.
Q: Can I make Dirt Cups ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make the pudding layer and crushed cookies up to a day ahead. Add the Peeps and candy right before serving for the best look.
Q: Can I use a different cookie instead of Oreos?
A: Yes. Any chocolate sandwich cookie or even chocolate graham crackers will work. Crush them fine to look like dirt.
Q: Do I have to use milk for the pudding?
A: Use the milk type the pudding package calls for. You can swap to a non-dairy milk if the pudding mix supports it.
Q: Can I put toppings inside the cup between layers?
A: Yes. Add small candies or chocolate chips between layers for texture. Just watch the fillings so they do not make the cookie crumbs soggy.
Q: How do I keep Peeps from getting sticky?
A: Add Peeps right before serving and store the cups in the fridge until serving time. Peeps can dry out if left out too long.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easter Dirt Cups
- Make the pudding first and chill it in the fridge. Keep it covered.
- Crush the cookies and store them in an airtight bag at room temperature.
- Keep the candy eggs and Peeps in a cool, dry place. Do not place candy on the cups until close to serving time.
- If you must assemble early, add only one cookie crumb layer on top and save the final candies. This keeps the top from looking damp.
- For very large batches, assemble in trays but add candies when you get to the event to keep the cups fresh.
Easter Dirt Cups
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the chocolate pudding according to package instructions, using milk.
- In cups or bowls, layer the chocolate pudding and crushed Oreo cookies.
- Top with Peeps bunnies and candy eggs.
- Chill in the refrigerator for a while before serving.
- Enjoy your no-bake Easter dessert!