Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups are a fun and festive dessert perfect for Halloween or fall gatherings. Layers of creamy chocolate pudding and crunchy cookie crumbs create a deliciously playful treat topped with green coconut “grass” and candy pumpkins.

Ingredients

• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding
• 2 cups milk
• 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip)
• 1 package regular-size chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo)
• Candy pumpkins for decoration
• Shredded coconut
• Green food coloring

Instructions

1. Step 1: Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies by pulsing them in a food processor until fine crumbs form, or place them in a gallon-size ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk vigorously for 2 minutes. Let it set for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Step 3: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding until well combined and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Assemble the dirt cups by layering one tablespoon of crushed cookies at the bottom of each cup, then add a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of cookie crumbs on top.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
6. Step 6: Tint shredded coconut by placing it in a container with a lid, adding a few drops of green food coloring and a small amount of water. Shake until evenly colored to resemble grass.
7. Step 7: Just before serving, sprinkle the green coconut “grass” over the dirt cups and top each with a candy pumpkin for decoration.

Tips & Variations

• Use gluten-free cookies if needed to make this dessert gluten-free.
• Try adding a layer of crushed candy corn for extra Halloween fun.
• For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk when preparing the pudding.
• To make the green coconut in advance, dry it out on a baking sheet before storing to avoid moisture.

Storage

Store assembled dirt cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the green coconut “grass” and candy pumpkin decorations just before serving to maintain texture and freshness. Leftovers can be reheated slightly at room temperature or enjoyed cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these dirt cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding mixture and cookie crumbs ahead and assemble the cups a few hours before serving. Just add the coconut and candy pumpkins right before serving for the best presentation.

What can I use instead of green food coloring?

If you prefer a natural alternative, you can dye the shredded coconut with spinach juice or matcha powder mixed with a little water to achieve a green hue.

Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups Recipe

Print Recipe

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These Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups are a festive, fun Halloween treat featuring layers of creamy chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, topped with green coconut ‘grass’ and candy pumpkins. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this no-bake dessert combines rich chocolate flavor with a playful pumpkin patch presentation.

• Author: Toney
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Pudding Mixture

• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups milk
• 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip)
• 1 package regular-size chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo)

Decoration

• Candy pumpkins
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• Green food coloring
• 1–2 teaspoons water (for coloring coconut)

Instructions

1. Crush Cookies: Begin by crushing the chocolate sandwich cookies. You can do this by pulsing them in a food processor until you get fine crumbs, or by sealing them in a gallon-size ziplock bag and using a rolling pin to crush them. Set aside for layering later.
2. Prepare Pudding: In a medium bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with the milk. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes, following the package instructions. Allow the pudding to set for 5 minutes until it thickens.
3. Fold in Whipped Topping: Once the pudding has set, gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until well combined, creating a light and fluffy filling. Folding gently keeps the mixture airy and creamy.
4. Assemble Cups: Add one tablespoon of the crushed cookies to the bottom of each cup. Top with a layer of the pudding and whipped topping mixture. Continue layering, alternating between crushed cookies and pudding mixture, ending with a final layer of cookie crumbs on top. Repeat for all serving cups.
5. Chill: Place the assembled cups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld. Chilling the dessert also makes it easier to serve.
6. Color Coconut Grass: In a container with a lid, add shredded coconut, a few drops of green food coloring, and a touch of water. Close the lid and shake until the coconut is evenly colored green, resembling grass.
7. Decorate and Serve: Right before serving, top each chilled dirt cup with a sprinkle of the green colored coconut and a candy pumpkin for a festive touch. For extra flavor and a bigger ‘grass’ effect, you can add extra coconut.

Notes

• Use regular-size chocolate sandwich cookies for the best crumb texture.
• Be gentle when folding whipped topping to maintain fluffiness.
• Chilling time is important for flavors to meld and to firm up the dessert.
• Green food coloring can be adjusted to achieve your preferred grass shade.
• For a stronger pumpkin flavor, consider adding pumpkin spice to the pudding mixture.

Keywords: Chocolate pumpkin dirt cups, Halloween dessert, no-bake pudding cups, chocolate pudding dessert, festive pumpkin treat