Oreo dirt cake layers (Printer-Friendly)

Layers of crushed Oreos alternate with creamy pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping for a crowd-pleasing treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cookies

01 - 14 ounces Oreo cookies, crushed

→ Dairy

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
04 - 12 ounces Cool Whip or frozen whipped topping
05 - 3 1/2 cups 2% milk

→ Sweeteners

06 - 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners sugar)

→ Pudding Mix

07 - 2 large boxes (10.2 ounces total) instant vanilla pudding mix

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Using a food processor, finely crush Oreo cookies. Sprinkle half of the crushed cookies evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9 x 13 inch pan.
02 - In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
03 - In a separate large bowl, whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with milk until well combined and slightly thickened.
04 - Fold the Cool Whip gently into the pudding mixture until uniform in texture and color.
05 - Add spoonfuls of the creamed butter and cream cheese mixture into the pudding and whipped topping blend. Stir gently until fully combined.
06 - Spoon the combined creamy mixture over the Oreo layer in the 9 x 13 inch pan. Spread evenly without disturbing the cookie layer beneath.
07 - Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos evenly over the creamy layer to finish the assembly.
08 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to chill thoroughly before serving.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Begin with softened cream cheese and butter to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.
02 - Optimal chilling time is 4 hours for best flavor and texture, although it remains enjoyable after 1 hour.
03 - Use instant pudding mix exclusively; cook-and-serve pudding will not set properly.
04 - This dessert is best consumed within 3 days; store covered in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess.