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Halloween Dirt Cake

Halloween Dirt Cake is a layered dessert featuring a smooth chocolate pudding base topped with crumbled cookies that resemble dirt. Gummy worms are hidden within, adding a playful, squirmy element that enhances its visual appeal and texture. The final dish has a creamy, crumbly appearance with surprises lurking beneath the surface.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups whole milk for pudding
  • 1 pouch (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 1 cup heavy cream for extra creaminess
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups ground chocolate sandwich cookies for the 'dirt' topping
  • 1 package gummy worms for hiding in the dirt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber Spatula
  • 9x13 inch serving dish
  • Plastic wrap or lid

Method
 

  1. Pour the milk into a mixing bowl, then whisk in the instant chocolate pudding mix until fully combined and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract using a hand or stand mixer until soft peaks form and the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
  3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate pudding mixture to create a smooth, creamy base, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
  4. Transfer the pudding mixture into a 9x13 inch serving dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula or back of a spoon.
  5. Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into coarse crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Sprinkle the cookie crumbs evenly over the pudding layer, covering completely.
  6. Insert gummy worms into the crumbed dirt, positioning some peeking out and some partially embedded to look like squirming underneath the surface.
  7. Cover the assembled dirt cake with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
  8. Just before serving, add a final layer of cookie crumbs on top for a fresh 'dirt' appearance, if desired.
  9. Serve chilled, with gummy worms visible and the crumbly 'dirt' texture inviting scoops with a spoon.

Notes

For an extra spooky touch, decorate with plastic spiders or small Halloween-themed decorations.