1. Prepare the “Dirt”:

Place the chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until they resemble fine soil or dirt. Alternatively, place cookies in a large zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. If using the melted butter, mix it with about ¾ of the crushed cookies to help them hold together better. Set aside the remaining cookie crumbs for the top layer.

2. Make the Pudding Base:

In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until it begins to thicken. Set aside to fully thicken for about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.

4. Combine the Creamy Layers:

Fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Then gently fold this mixture into the chocolate pudding until well combined, creating a uniform creamy filling.

5. Assemble the Basic Dirt Cake:

For a simple presentation in a 9×13 inch dish: Sprinkle half of the cookie crumbs on the bottom of the dish. Spread the creamy filling evenly over the cookie layer. Top with the remaining cookie crumbs to create the “dirt” effect.

6. Create a Flowerpot Presentation (Optional):

For a more dramatic presentation: Use a clean, new plastic flowerpot or a clear trifle dish. Place a new plastic liner or clear plastic wrap in the pot if using a real flowerpot. Layer as follows:

• Start with ⅓ of the cookie crumbs on the bottom
• Add half of the creamy filling
• Add another ⅓ of the cookie crumbs
• Add the remaining creamy filling
• Top with the final layer of cookie crumbs

7. Decorate Your Creation:

Push gummy worms partially into the dirt so they appear to be crawling in and out. For a flowerpot presentation, insert artificial flowers into the center and stick small plastic garden tools into the sides. Sprinkle green-tinted coconut on one area to resemble grass, or add candy rocks if desired.

8. Chill to Set:

Refrigerate the dirt cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this playful dessert with small garden shovels or spoons. For a fun party presentation, provide individual cups with their own portion of dirt cake for each guest. Pair with cold milk or coffee for the adults.