Dessert

Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups Recipe

ByHugo Harnd October 25, 2025October 25, 2025

Introduction

These Pumpkin Patch Dirt Cups are a fun and festive dessert perfect for fall gatherings. Layers of creamy pumpkin pudding and rich chocolate pudding are topped with “dirt” made from crushed cookies and festive candy for a playful treat everyone will enjoy.

The image shows two clear cups of layered pumpkin-themed desserts placed on a white marbled surface. Each dessert has five visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark crumbly chocolate base, followed by a creamy light beige layer, then another thin dark crumbly layer. Above that is an orange pumpkin mousse layer with small bright yellow cubes embedded in it, topped with a thick layer of dark chocolate crumbs. On top, there is a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with tiny chocolate pieces, crowned by a small, bright orange pumpkin decoration with a stem. The background has scattered fall leaves in red and orange tones and pieces of dark chocolate around the cups. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (or pumpkin spice flavor)
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
4 cups milk (2 cups per pudding box)
1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar)
Crushed Oreos
Graham crackers (optional)
Gummy worms
Candy pumpkins
Small clear plastic cups or glass jars

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of milk according to the package instructions, then chill for 5–10 minutes until set.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, prepare the vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of milk. Stir in the canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
Step 3: Fold the whipped topping gently into the pumpkin pudding mixture to create a lighter, creamier texture.
Step 4: Spoon a layer of chocolate pudding into the bottom of each cup.
Step 5: Add a layer of crushed Oreos on top of the chocolate pudding.
Step 6: Spoon the pumpkin pudding mixture over the crushed cookies.
Step 7: Top with more crushed Oreos or graham crackers to cover the surface completely, creating the “dirt” effect.
Step 8: Decorate with gummy worms, candy pumpkins, and any other festive candies you like.

Tips & Variations

Use pumpkin spice vanilla pudding for an extra autumnal flavor boost.
Swap the Oreos for crushed chocolate graham crackers for a slightly different texture.
Chill the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and pudding firm up.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra warmth.

Storage

Store the dirt cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to add the gummy worms and candy decorations just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent them from getting soggy. You can enjoy them cold directly from the fridge; no reheating needed.

How to Serve

Two clear glass cups show layered pumpkin desserts, each with four layers: a bottom layer of dark brown crumbly cake, a thick creamy white middle layer, a bright orange pumpkin mousse layer above that, topped with a crumbly dark brown topping resembling soil, and decorated with small dollops of white cream, a tiny brown stick, and small round pieces. The cups sit on a white marbled surface with orange pumpkins and red autumn leaves around them. A woman's hand is reaching for one of the cups. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding layers and assemble the cups a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated and add gummy worms and candy decorations right before serving to maintain their texture.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mixes?

Absolutely! Homemade chocolate and vanilla pudding will work well. Just be sure they are fully chilled and thickened before assembling the layers for best results.