Introduction

Dirt Cake Cookies are a fun and delicious treat that combine rich chocolate Oreo cookies with creamy chocolate frosting. Topped with gummy worms and extra Oreo crumbs, these cookies are perfect for parties or any time you want a playful dessert.

The image shows a close-up of chocolate cupcakes with three visible layers: a dark brown, moist chocolate cake base; a thick, creamy layer of smooth milk chocolate frosting spread evenly on top; and a sprinkling of dark cookie crumbs scattered over the frosting. Each cupcake is topped with a colorful gummy worm candy, with hues of green, yellow, orange, and purple clearly visible. One cupcake near the center has a bite taken out, revealing the soft, dense cake layer inside, while the cupcakes rest on a wooden board that contrasts with the white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
1 cup brown sugar (packed, light or dark)
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs (room temperature)
3/4 cup Oreo pieces
1/2 cup Oreo crumbs (plus extra to top the cookies)
1 1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
1 3/4 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Oreo crumbs (for decoration)
Gummy worms (for decoration)

Instructions

Step 1: Using a food processor, blend Oreos into small and medium pieces, then blend some into fine crumbs. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat melted and cooled butter, brown sugar, and white sugar on high speed for 2 minutes using a mixer.
Step 4: Add vanilla extract and eggs to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in the Oreo pieces and Oreo crumbs until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Step 8: Let the cookie dough rest in the bowl for 10 minutes to help with spreading.
Step 9: Use a large cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons) to form dough balls. Place 6 dough balls per sheet.
Step 10: Bake one sheet at a time for 12–14 minutes.
Step 11: Let the cookies rest on the hot pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Cool completely before frosting.
Step 12: For the frosting, beat 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter on high speed for 3 minutes until fluffy.
Step 13: Add sifted powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix on low speed until combined.
Step 14: Add vanilla extract and salt. Beat on high speed until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Step 15: Use a small cookie scoop to dollop frosting onto each cookie. Spread frosting evenly with an offset icing spatula.
Step 16: Decorate with a sprinkle of Oreo crumbs and top each cookie with a gummy worm.

Tips & Variations

Letting the dough rest before baking helps prevent excessive spreading and keeps cookies chewy.
For extra crunch, add chopped nuts along with Oreo pieces in the dough.
Substitute gummy worms with chocolate sprinkles or candy eyes for a different decorative twist.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before frosting if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows multiple round chocolate cookies with a single thick layer of creamy chocolate frosting swirled on top, giving a soft and smooth texture. Each cookie is decorated with crushed black cookie crumbs scattered lightly over the frosting, creating a rough contrast. A gummy worm candy, brightly colored in shades of red, green, or orange, is placed on the center of each cookie, adding a playful and shiny element. All cookies sit close together on a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken from above to capture the details clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of Oreos?

Yes, you can experiment with similar sandwich cookies, but Oreos provide a great balance of chocolate and cream flavors that complement this recipe well.

Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?

Sifting helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth batter, especially with cocoa powder and powdered sugar, but if you don’t have a sifter, whisking the ingredients thoroughly works as well.