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Need an easy homemade dessert that'll wow everyone? This Dirt Cake is my go-to chocolate treat! The homemade version layers rich cake with hot fudge, creamy pudding, and lots of crushed Oreos. This easy recipe looks impressive but is so simple to make - perfect for parties or whenever you need a chocolate fix!
A Little History
This homemade dessert has been making kids smile since the 1980s! My easy recipe is like a fun take on Mississippi Mud Pie, layered up trifle-style. The crushed cookies really do look like dirt, and this homemade version is always a hit at parties.
What You'll Need
- The Base: Chocolate cake mix makes this easy recipe super simple.
- Cookie Magic: Lots of Oreos for our homemade "dirt".
- Extra Chocolate: Hot fudge makes this homemade version extra rich.
- Creamy Stuff: Instant pudding and milk for this easy recipe.
- Light Touch: Cool Whip makes our homemade layers perfect.
Let's Make Dirt Cake
- Start With Cake
- This easy recipe begins with a freshly baked cake - poke holes all over the top for extra goodness!
- Add The Fudge
- Pour warm fudge over your homemade cake, letting it sink into those holes.
- Layer of Love
- Mix up pudding for this easy recipe and spread it over the cake. Give it a quick chill.
- Top It Off
- Mix more pudding with Cool Whip for your homemade topping, then sprinkle with crushed Oreos.
Make It Your Own
This easy recipe is so fun to customize! Add gummy worms to your homemade version, or try different Oreo flavors. Let this homemade dessert chill at least two hours to get perfect. Want to make it extra special? Try using homemade chocolate cake in this easy recipe!
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Keep It Fresh
Your homemade dirt cake will stay good in the fridge for three days. This easy recipe even freezes well - up to three months! My kids love when I freeze this homemade version - it turns into something like ice cream.
Quick Answers
Got questions about this easy recipe? Here's what I've learned making this homemade dessert: Crush those Oreos in a bag with a rolling pin, make your homemade version up to a day ahead, and don't skip the Cool Whip topping! This easy recipe is so flexible - try mint Oreos or vanilla pudding for something different.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why poke holes in cake?
Allows hot fudge to seep into cake for extra moisture and flavor throughout.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored covered in refrigerator.
- → Why layer the pudding?
Creates distinct texture layers and prevents ingredients from mixing together.
- → Can I use different cookies?
Yes, try chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate wafers instead of Oreos.
- → Do I need to let layers set?
Yes, chilling between layers ensures proper texture and prevents mixing.