Name: Dirt Cake Recipe with Hot Fudge, Oreo Topping, and Cool Whip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box for preparation); 12.8 oz hot fudge; 3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix; 1 ¾ cup milk; 30 Oreos, crushed; 3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix; 1 ¾ cup milk; 8 oz cool whip, thawed

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Introduction

Dirt cake is a fun and delicious dessert that layers rich chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and crunchy Oreos. It’s a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

The image shows a close-up of a small dessert square on a white plate with a white marbled surface underneath. The dessert has two layers: the bottom layer is dark, moist chocolate cake with a slightly rough texture and visible moisture. The top layer is a light brown, creamy chocolate mousse with a smooth and airy texture. This mousse is generously topped with broken pieces of dark chocolate cookie crumbs, adding a crumbly texture and darker patches on the top and sides. The dessert looks rich and dense, with the mousse slightly melting and blending into the cake layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
12.8 oz hot fudge
3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix (divided into two packages)
1 ¾ cup milk (divided)
30 Oreos, crushed
8 oz Cool Whip, thawed

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box and bake as directed. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Using the end of a spoon, poke holes evenly all over the warm cake.
Step 3: Warm the hot fudge in the microwave until it becomes thin enough to pour smoothly.
Step 4: Pour the warmed hot fudge evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
Step 5: In a medium bowl, whisk together one package of the chocolate instant pudding mix with 1 ¾ cups milk. Pour this pudding layer over the cooled cake before it sets fully.
Step 6: Refrigerate the cake for about 20 minutes to allow the pudding to chill and set.
Step 7: In a separate bowl, combine the second package of pudding mix with 1 ¾ cups milk and chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes until fully set.
Step 8: Remove the set pudding from the fridge and gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip.
Step 9: Mix in about three-quarters of the crushed Oreos into this topping mixture and spread it evenly over the chilled cake.
Step 10: Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top of the cake. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For added texture, try mixing in some chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips into the pudding layer.
Use a glass or clear dish to show off the tasty layers of the dirt cake.
If you prefer, substitute the chocolate pudding with vanilla pudding for a twist on flavor.
Letting the cake chill longer will help the layers set firmly, making it easier to slice.

Storage

Store the dirt cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes; this dessert is best enjoyed chilled but not cold straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

A single square piece of chocolate dessert is shown close up on a white plate with a white marbled background. The bottom layer is a dense, moist dark brown chocolate cake with a shiny, slightly gooey texture. The top layer is a thick, light brown chocolate mousse that looks creamy and fluffy, spread unevenly over the cake. There are crushed dark chocolate cookie pieces sprinkled generously on top and some sticking to the sides of the mousse. The dessert looks rich and moist. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed cake mix?

Yes, using homemade chocolate cake works well. Just make sure it is fully cooled before layering the pudding and fudge.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! Dirt cake is great when made a few hours to a day ahead. Just cover it and keep it refrigerated until serving.