Easter Dirt Cake Casserole
The beauty of this dish is how simple it is to put together. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated techniques—just a few classic ingredients that come together to create something festive and fun.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (2–3)
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon
- Food processor or plastic bag & rolling pin
Ingredients
For the Base Layer:
- 1 package 15.25 oz chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
- 6 tablespoons butter melted
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 8 oz container whipped topping, thawed
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup chocolate sandwich cookies crushed (for “dirt”)
- 1/2 cup pastel mini chocolate eggs or candy of choice
- Optional: gummy worms for a fun touch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Base
- Crush 1 package of chocolate sandwich cookies until fine crumbs form.
- Pro tip: Use a food processor for quick crushing, or place cookies in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Combine the crushed cookies with 6 tablespoons melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until all crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
- Pro tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs flat—it helps the base hold together perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Pro tip: Beat at medium speed to avoid lumps and get a silky texture.
- Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully combined.
- Gently fold in 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Pro tip: Fold carefully to maintain the airy texture; don’t overmix or it will deflate.
Step 3: Layer the Dirt Cake
- Spread the creamy filling evenly over the cookie base in the baking dish.
- Pro tip: Use a spatula to smooth the surface, creating a clean layer for the topping.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup crushed cookies evenly over the top to resemble “dirt.”
- Add 1/2 cup pastel mini chocolate eggs or candies on top, pressing lightly so they stick.
- Optional: Place gummy worms peeking out from the “dirt” for a playful touch.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Pro tip: Chilling allows the layers to set and makes slicing much easier.
- Slice into squares or scoop with a large spoon when ready to serve.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: ~380–420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Sugar: ~30g
- Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~12g
- Protein: ~4g
- Fiber: ~1–2g
- Sodium: ~220mg