Copycat Dirt Cake Crumbl Cookie

If you’ve ever tried the Dirt Cake Crumbl Cookie, you already know why this treat has become a fan favorite. Inspired by the nostalgic dessert of crushed Oreo cookies, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream, this indulgent cookie takes those flavors to the next level. Imagine a rich, soft chocolate cookie topped with creamy chocolate frosting, a sprinkle of crushed Oreos, and a gummy worm for a playful twist. It’s dessert meets childhood nostalgia—what’s not to love?

The Dirt Cake Crumbl Cookie is all about decadence, and with this copycat recipe, you can recreate this bakery-style treat in your own kitchen. The chocolate cookie base is soft and fudgy, the frosting is silky and loaded with chocolate flavor, and the crushed Oreos add a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just because, these cookies are guaranteed to wow your guests.

This guide will walk you through every step of creating the perfect dirt cake cookies at home, complete with tips for achieving bakery-level results, creative topping ideas, and answers to common questions. Let’s bake up a batch of cookies that are as fun to eat as they are delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: Despite looking bakery-worthy, these cookies are simple enough for home bakers.
2. Rich and Decadent: The fudgy cookie base and creamy frosting make this the ultimate chocolate dessert.
3. Playful Nostalgia: The crushed Oreos and gummy worms add a touch of childhood charm to an already amazing cookie.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, holidays, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
5. Customizable: Switch up the toppings or flavors to make this recipe your own.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 10 minutes
• Assembly Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 large cookies
• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per cookie)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 35g

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookie Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings:

• 10-12 Oreo cookies, crushed
• 12 gummy worms

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be thick.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape while baking.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

3. Shape and Bake the Cookies

Scoop out 1/4 cup portions of dough (you can use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing) and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 3 inches of space between each one.

Using the back of a spoon or your fingers, gently flatten each dough ball slightly—this helps the cookies bake evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes. The cookies will look slightly underbaked in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Make the Chocolate Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. Assemble the Dirt Cake Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting on each cookie.

Sprinkle the crushed Oreos over the frosting, pressing lightly to help them stick. Top each cookie with a gummy worm for the classic “dirt cake” look.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before serving.

Ingredient Background

Cocoa Powder

Unsweetened cocoa powder is the star ingredient in the cookie dough and frosting, giving these cookies their rich, chocolatey flavor. Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best results.

Butter

Room-temperature unsalted butter ensures the cookies are soft and tender, while also creating a creamy base for the frosting.

Oreo Cookies

Crushed Oreos add a signature crunch and flavor to the topping. You can use any chocolate sandwich cookie if you prefer.

Gummy Worms

Gummy worms add a playful, nostalgic touch to these cookies, making them perfect for kids and themed events.

Technique Tips

1. Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
2. Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be soft and slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.
3. Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
4. Spread the Frosting Evenly: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly frost the cookies for a bakery-quality look.
5. Press Toppings Gently: Press the crushed Oreos into the frosting slightly to help them adhere.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Mini Dirt Cake Cookies: Make smaller cookies by using a tablespoon-sized scoop of dough. Adjust the baking time to 7-9 minutes.
2. Dirt Cake Sandwich Cookies: Spread the frosting between two cookies and roll the edges in crushed Oreos.
3. Dirt Cake Cookie Bars: Press the cookie dough into a 9×13-inch pan, bake as a sheet, then frost and cut into squares.

Additional Tips for Success

• Double the Recipe: These cookies disappear quickly! Consider making a double batch if you’re serving a crowd.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures evenly sized cookies, which bake more consistently.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even crushed pretzels for a twist on the classic.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the cookie dough and frosting ahead of time. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and the frosting in the fridge for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

1. Peanut Butter Dirt Cake Cookies: Add 1/4 cup of peanut butter to the cookie dough for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.
2. Mint Dirt Cake Cookies: Use mint-flavored Oreos and add a drop of peppermint extract to the frosting.
3. Gluten-Free Dirt Cake Cookies: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
4. Dairy-Free Dirt Cake Cookies: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for the dough and frosting.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

To freeze unfrosted cookies, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

To freeze fully assembled cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Storage

Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar in the cookie dough and frosting.
2. Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
3. Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer, less sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Birthday Parties: Add colorful sprinkles to the crushed Oreos for a festive touch.
2. Halloween Treats: Use green gummy worms or candy eyeballs for a spooky twist.
3. Cookie Exchange: Pack these cookies in decorative boxes or bags for a homemade gift.

Special Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar and making the frosting.
• Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: To prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought frosting?
   Yes, but homemade frosting offers a richer flavor and better texture.
2. Do I have to chill the dough?
   Chilling is highly recommended to prevent spreading and achieve a thick, chewy cookie.
3. Can I use other toppings?
   Absolutely! Crushed graham crackers, mini marshmallows, or candy pieces are fun alternatives.
4. Can I make these cookies smaller?
   Yes, use a smaller scoop for bite-sized cookies and adjust the baking time.
5. Can I freeze the dough?
   Yes, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
6. What’s the best cocoa powder to use?
   High-quality cocoa powder, like Dutch-processed, gives the richest chocolate flavor.

Conclusion

Copycat Dirt Cake Crumbl Cookies are the perfect indulgent treat for chocolate lovers of all ages. With their fudgy cookie base, creamy frosting, and playful toppings, these cookies bring the joy of dirt cake to a handheld dessert. Whether you’re recreating them for a nostalgic treat or baking them for a special occasion, this recipe delivers bakery-level results right at home. Try them today and watch as they disappear off the plate!

Print