Oreo Dirt Pie Dessert (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies
02 - ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

→ Cream Cheese Layer

03 - 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
04 - 1 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Pudding Layer

06 - 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
07 - 2 ¾ cups cold milk

→ Topping

08 - 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
09 - Gummy worms (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Place the Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Alternatively, place them in a resealable plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin. Combine the crushed cookies with melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it evenly.
02 - In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined and smooth.
03 - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared Oreo crust, ensuring complete coverage.
04 - In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened (approximately 2 minutes). Allow the pudding to sit for additional thickening.
05 - Pour the thickened pudding over the cream cheese layer in the pie dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.
06 - Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer, covering it entirely.
07 - Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
08 - Before serving, optionally garnish with additional crushed Oreo cookies and gummy worms to resemble 'dirt.' Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - To easily crush the Oreos, you can use a resealable bag and rolling pin if a food processor is unavailable.
02 - Prepare the pie a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
03 - Experiment with variations such as using vanilla or cookies and cream pudding, or adding sliced bananas or chopped nuts.