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Irresistible Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups Recipe

Irresistible Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups Recipe

4.8 from 24 reviews

Delightfully festive and easy-to-make Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups combine layers of chocolate cookie crumbs and creamy chocolate pudding topped with candy pumpkins, perfect for Halloween or autumn gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust & Topping

  • 1 package (15.25 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies (2428 cookies)
  • 2 tablespoons reserved cookie crumbs (from above)

Pudding Filling

  • 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Decoration

  • 1216 candy pumpkins
  • Green candy melts, sprinkles, or licorice (optional for “vines”)

Serving

  • Clear plastic cups (8–9 oz size)

Instructions

  1. Crush the cookies: Using a food processor or placing the cookies in a zip-top bag, crush them with a rolling pin until you achieve fine crumbs. Set aside 2 tablespoons of these crumbs for garnishing later.
  2. Make the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
  3. Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the set pudding mixture using a spatula, combining until the texture is smooth and fluffy without deflating the topping.
  4. Layer the cups: Spoon a layer of chocolate cookie crumbs into the bottom of each clear plastic cup. Then add a layer of the chocolate pudding mixture on top. Repeat the layering process until the cups are almost full, finishing with a layer of the cookie crumbs on top to resemble dirt.
  5. Decorate: Press candy pumpkins onto the top ‘dirt’ layer of each cup. Optionally, create ‘vines’ by decorating with green candy melts, sprinkles, or licorice around the pumpkins.
  6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the prepared cups for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the layers set. For best taste and freshness, enjoy within 2 days.

Notes

  • You can crush the cookies by hand if a food processor is not available, but aim for fine crumbs for the best texture.
  • Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed and cold to easily fold into the pudding without deflating.
  • Use clear plastic cups to showcase the layered look, adding to the fun presentation.
  • For a vegan or dairy-free variation, substitute with dairy-free pudding mix and coconut whipped topping.
  • Prepare these cups a few hours ahead to allow flavors to meld, but avoid making them more than 2 days in advance to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups, Halloween dessert, no-bake pudding cups, chocolate dessert, kid-friendly treats