These spooky graveyard dirt cups are a fun and festive treat perfect for Halloween. I make them with creamy chocolate pudding mixed with whipped topping, layered with crushed chocolate cookies, and decorated with gummy worms, candy bones, and cookie headstones. They always turn out delicious, and I love how easy they are to put together for parties or family fun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to make and even more fun to decorate. Most of the time spent is on making the “graveyard” toppings look spooky, but the actual dessert comes together quickly. I like that I can make individual cups, which makes them perfect for parties and classroom treats. Since the base is all chocolate, these cups are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, kids can join in on the fun by crushing cookies and adding gummy worms.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dirt cups:

• milk

• instant chocolate pudding mix

• whipped topping (like Cool Whip or whipped cream)

• chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed

For the spooky toppings:

• gummy worms

• Milano cookies or another flat light-colored cookie

• chocolate chips (optional, for decorating)

• coconut oil (optional, for decorating)

• bone-shaped sprinkles (optional)

Directions

1. I start by whisking cold milk with the pudding mix in a large bowl until smooth.

2. I let the pudding chill for about 10 minutes in the refrigerator so it begins to thicken.

3. I fold in the softened whipped topping until everything is well combined.

4. I divide the mixture evenly between clear cups and let them chill for another 20 minutes.

5. While the pudding chills, I crush the chocolate cookies in a food processor or a strong zip-top bag.

6. I melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil, then pipe decorations onto Milano cookies to create gravestones and ghosts. I let these set in the fridge for 5–10 minutes.

7. I sprinkle crushed cookies over the pudding cups to look like dirt.

8. I press the cookie gravestones into the cups, then add gummy worms and sprinkles for the spooky effect.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings, each in a 9-ounce clear party cup. The prep time takes around 10 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling, so the total time is about 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add an extra layer of cookie crumbs at the bottom of the cup before adding the pudding for more texture. I’ve also swapped in vanilla or white chocolate pudding for a lighter look, or used Halloween-themed sprinkles instead of bones. For an even easier version, I’ve decorated the cookies with store-bought gel frosting instead of melted chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the prepared pudding in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days before serving, covered with plastic wrap so it doesn’t form a skin. I wait to add the cookie crumbs and decorations until the day I serve them, so they don’t get soggy. The decorated cups are best enjoyed within 24 hours, while the gravestone cookies can be decorated and stored separately for 3–4 days in advance.

FAQs

Can I make these dirt cups ahead of time?

I can make the pudding mixture a few days in advance, but I decorate the cups closer to serving so the toppings stay fresh.

What can I use instead of Milano cookies for gravestones?

I like using any flat, light-colored cookies such as Vienna Fingers or even graham crackers cut to size.

Do I have to use Cool Whip, or can I use real whipped cream?

I use whichever I have on hand—both Cool Whip and freshly whipped cream work well in this recipe.

How do I crush the cookies without a food processor?

I place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or even a heavy can.

Can I make mini versions of this dessert?

Yes, I’ve made smaller cups using 2.5-ounce containers for bite-sized treats, which are perfect for large parties.

Conclusion

I love making these spooky graveyard dirt cups every Halloween. They’re creamy, chocolatey, and so much fun to decorate with ghosts, gravestones, and worms. Whether I serve them at a party or make them just for family fun, they always get big smiles and are a sweet way to celebrate the season.