Fun layered pudding “dirt” cups with whipped pudding mixed with crushed chocolate cookies, topped with gummy worms—playful, easy, and kid-approved.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-bake, minimal prep, and assembled in cups—perfect for kids or themed parties.

• Playfully spooky but sweet, with creamy pudding, crunchy cookie “dirt,” and gummy worm surprise.

• Don’t need mixing bowls—crush directly in the bag.

• Great for entertaining, classroom treats, or anytime fun dessert moments.

Dirt Pudding Cups with Gummy Worms

This whimsical dessert brings pure delight to table and hearts alike—mini pudding cups transformed into edible terrariums, complete with “dirt” and wriggling gummy worms. Start by crushing chocolate sandwich cookies in a zip-top bag; no need to fuss with separating creams or dirtying dishes. The crushed bits become irresistible “dirt” that’s both crunchy and chocolatey.

Next, mix instant chocolate pudding with cold milk until silky thick, then whisk in whipped topping and half the cookie crumbs. The result is creamy, chocolatey, smooth with speckles of crunch—perfect for layering. Scoop into glass or clear plastic cups to let the layers show through.

Then comes the fun part: three gummy worms per cup, tucked playfully into the pudding—emerging just enough to peek out like little surprises in a garden. Snap on more cookie crumbs as the final “dirt” layer to cover the worms. Cute, kitschy, and totally delightful to look at before even tasting.

The best thing about these cups is how simple they are—no bake, no oven, and you can crush cookies while chatting or streaming your favorite show. Kids love making them, and adults love how easy they are. They work for Halloween parties, birthdays, or just hungry moments when dessert calls for fun.

Each cup is a mix of textures: smooth pudding, light whipped topping, crunchy crumbs, and chewy gummy worms. The sweetness, the playfulness, and the ease combine to make it a guilty pleasure that’s low-stress and high-fun.

Servings

Makes 8 cups.

Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes total

• Assembly: Immediate

• Total time: 10 minutes (plus chilling if preferred)

Ingredients

• 15 oz chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g. Oreos)

• 3.9 oz chocolate instant pudding mix

• 2 cups cold milk

• 8 oz whipped topping (e.g. Cool Whip)

• 24 gummy worms

Instructions

1. Crush cookies in a sealed plastic bag (cream included)—crumble to fine bits with some larger pieces.

2. In a bowl, whisk pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).

3. Stir in whipped topping and approximately half the cookie crumbs until combined.

4. Distribute pudding mixture evenly into 8 cups. Tap cups to level.

5. Insert 3 gummy worms into each cup, pressing them slightly into the pudding.

6. Sprinkle remaining cookie crumbs over the top to cover fully. Serve immediately or chill.

Tips

• Use clear cups to showcase the layers and worms—adds to the fun.

• Add gummy worms just before serving to prevent them from sinking or getting soggy.

• For extra flavor, mix a small amount of instant coffee into pudding for depth.

• Store chilled for up to a day; cookie crumbs may soften over time.