“Who knew a Halloween treat could evoke so many childhood memories? These Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits are not only a delightful nod to the spooky season, but they also make a fun and easy no-bake dessert that everyone will love. With layers of creamy pumpkin pudding and crunchy Oreo ‘dirt,’ this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to add a whimsical touch to your Halloween celebrations. Ready to make something that looks just as good as it tastes? Let’s dive in!” Why are Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Parfaits so special? Unforgettable Taste: The sweet and spiced pumpkin pudding blends perfectly with the crunchy Oreo ‘dirt,’ creating a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. No-Bake Wonder: This recipe saves you time and stress—it’s a quick, no-bake dessert that allows you to focus on Halloween fun with friends and family! Visual Delight: Layering the ingredients in clear glasses offers a stunning presentation that will wow your guests and make for great Instagram photos! Versatile Layers: Feel free to mix things up! You can substitute pumpkin with chocolate or vanilla pudding, or even add fun Halloween-themed candies for extra flair. Crowd-Pleasing Fun: Whether at a spooky gathering or a casual family dinner, these parfaits are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. For more fun dessert ideas, check out my Banana Pudding Rice and Dirty Martini Deviled recipes! Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Ingredients For the Pudding Evaporated Milk – Provides creamy richness; you can replace it with regular milk for a lighter dessert. Pumpkin Puree – Adds delightful flavor and moisture; ensure you’re using pure pumpkin, not pie filling for the best results. Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Forms the base of the pudding; for a twist, try chocolate pudding mix for a richer profile. Cinnamon – Enhances the cozy pumpkin flavor; it’s optional, but highly recommended to savor that fall essence. Cool Whip – Adds a fluffy texture; you can swap it with homemade whipped cream for a more natural touch. For the ‘Dirt’ Layer Oreos (Crushed) – Creates the perfect ‘dirt’ layer; gluten-free Oreos are available if you want a gluten-free version. Butter (Melted) – Binds the crushed Oreos together; coconut oil can be a great alternative for a dairy-free version. For the Topping Milano Cookies – Shaped like tombstones to give a spooky finish; feel free to decorate any cookie that fits the theme if needed. Chocolate Chips – Used to create graves on the Milano cookies; they add a decorative touch that’s optional but fun. Get ready to impress with these delightful Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits that blend comfort, creativity, and the spirit of Halloween! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Dirt Pudding (Graveyard Parfaits) Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of evaporated milk, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, and 1 packet of instant vanilla pudding mix. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and thick. Once done, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 5 minutes to allow it to set properly. Step 2: Fold in the Cool Whip After the pumpkin pudding has chilled, gently stir in 1 cup of Cool Whip and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the mixture until fully incorporated. This will add a light, fluffy texture to the pudding that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor. Keep the pudding mixture in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the parfaits. Step 3: Prepare the Oreo Crust In a separate bowl, crush about 10 Oreos into fine crumbs. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it together with the Oreo crumbs until they are well combined and resemble wet sand. Set this mixture aside, as it will serve as the ‘dirt’ layer in your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding (Graveyard Parfaits). Step 4: Decorate the Milano Cookies Take about 6 Milano cookies and melt some chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds, stirring until smooth. Use a toothpick or piping bag to write “RIP” on each cookie to resemble tombstones. Allow the decorated cookies to dry completely on a wire rack or parchment paper. Step 5: Assemble the Parfaits Grab your serving glasses or cups and layer the dessert starting with the crushed Oreo mixture at the bottom, about 1–2 inches deep. Following this, spoon in the creamy pumpkin pudding to fill each glass about three-quarters full, creating a beautiful contrast between the layers. Top the pudding with another layer of crushed Oreos for that delightful dirt effect. Step 6: Add Final Touches To finish your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding (Graveyard Parfaits), gently insert your decorated Milano cookies into the pudding layer, standing upright as if they are tombstones. You can also sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips around for decoration. Serve the parfaits chilled, and enjoy the spooky delight they bring to your Halloween gatherings! Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Tailor your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits to match your taste and dietary needs—it’s all about creating your perfect spooky treat! Chocolate Twist: Substitute pumpkin puree with chocolate pudding mix for a decadent dessert that even chocolate lovers will adore. Try layering it with crushed chocolate cookies for an extra rich taste! Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and replace Cool Whip with whipped coconut cream. This ensures that everyone can indulge, regardless of dietary restrictions. Flavorful Additions: Incorporate a teaspoon of pumpkin spice into the pudding mixture for an extra autumnal punch. It layers well with the creamy pudding, enhancing the overall flavor beautifully. Gluten-Free Option: Switch out regular Oreos for gluten-free Oreos, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the fun without compromising flavor or texture. Crunchy Layer: For an added texture twist, sprinkle in some crushed nuts or granola between layers for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess. Festive Candies: Top with Halloween-themed gummies or sprinkles to elevate the spooky aesthetic. This not only makes it more festive, but it’s a hit with kids! Mini Versions: Serve in mini cups for individual portions—it makes them adorable and perfect for parties! Plus, you can experiment with different toppings for each. For more of my deliciously easy treats, don’t forget to check out my Banana Pudding Rice and Dirty Martini Deviled recipes! Tips for the Best Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Smooth Mixture: Ensure your pudding mixture is completely smooth before chilling to avoid any lumps in your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding, leading to a creamier texture. Chill Time: Allow the pudding to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also helps the pudding firm up nicely. Layer with Care: Use a spoon or piping bag to gently layer the pudding and Oreo mixture in your glasses. This helps keep the layers distinct, making it visually appealing. Cookie Substitutes: If Milano cookies are hard to find, any cookie can be dressed up to look like tombstones with a little creativity—try chocolate wafers or even graham crackers. Presentation Matters: Vary the glass sizes and shapes for an eye-catching presentation. It allows for unique designs in each serving and adds a festive touch to your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding. Fun Toppings: Consider adding seasonal sprinkles or edible decorations on top of your parfaits for an extra touch of Halloween spirit! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Refrigerator: Keep your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and delicious flavors. Layering Freshness: For optimal crunch, add the crushed Oreo layers just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy. Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pudding mixture for up to 1 month in an airtight container. However, the texture may change upon thawing. Thawing: When you’re ready to serve, place the frozen mixture in the fridge overnight to gently thaw, then re-layer with fresh Oreos prior to serving. What to Serve with Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits Elevate your Halloween spirit with delightful accompaniments that balance the creaminess of your spooky dessert. Ghostly Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like oranges and grapes adds a fresh, tart contrast, boosting the celebration’s bright flavors. Apple Cider: Warm or chilled, the spiced notes of apple cider harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin flavor, inviting warm autumn vibes. Spooky Cheese Platter: An assortment of sharp cheddar and ghost-shaped cheeses pairs excellently, bringing richness to the dessert experience. Pumpkin Spice Cookies: These soft, flavorful cookies echo the pumpkin theme, enhancing the warm notes and offering delightful textures. Chocolate Beet Cupcakes: Decadent yet surprisingly moist, these cupcakes will intrigue guests while complementing the sweet earthiness of the pudding. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Rich and soothing, a mug of this drink brings a cozy warmth, especially when served alongside the parfaits. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy, sweet blend adds texture, making it a fun finger food that contrasts well with the creamy layers of the parfait. Witch’s Brew Punch: This refreshing, colorful drink—made with fruit juices and soda—adds a festive touch, perfect for your Halloween gatherings. Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time while still serving a delightful dessert! You can prepare the pumpkin pudding mixture (evaporated milk, pumpkin puree, and instant pudding) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it after mixing. The crushed Oreo layer can also be made ahead—just store it in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the parfaits by layering the prepared pudding and crushed Oreos, then add the Halloween-themed Milano cookies. This advance prep ensures that your parfaits turn out just as delicious and minimize stress on serving day! Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe pumpkins? Absolutely! When selecting pumpkins, look for ones that are firm and have a smooth, unblemished skin. If possible, gently press the flesh; it should feel solid. The ideal pumpkin is vibrant in color (deep orange) and feels heavy for its size. Avoid any with soft spots or dark blemishes. How should I store the Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits? Very simply! Cover the parfaits with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture and flavor. For the best crunch, I recommend waiting to add the Oreo crumb layers until just before serving. Can I freeze the Pumpkin Dirt Pudding mixture? Yes, you can! For short-term storage, freeze the pudding mixture in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, re-layer the pudding with fresh crushed Oreos to maintain the ideal texture—this keeps it crunchy and delightful upon serving! What if my pudding mixture is lumpy? If you find lumps in your Pumpkin Dirt Pudding, don’t worry! Simply return the mixture to your electric mixer and beat it on medium speed until smooth. If you’ve already chilled it and found lumps, whisking it again in a bowl might help. Always ensure your ingredients are combined smoothly before refrigerating for the best texture! Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Certainly! This recipe includes dairy from Cool Whip, evaporated milk, and butter. If you are making these parfaits for anyone with lactose intolerance, consider using lactose-free alternatives. Additionally, if you’re looking to accommodate gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free Oreos. Be sure to check packaging on all substitutes to avoid allergens. What can I use instead of Milano cookies for decoration? When Milano cookies are hard to come by, you can use any sturdy cookie that can be decorated. Chocolate wafers or even graham crackers can be a fun alternative. Just get a bit creative with icing or melted chocolate to fashion them as tombstones—your guests will love the personal touch! Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Halloween dessert! Spooky Delicious Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits Enjoy these Pumpkin Dirt Pudding Graveyard Parfaits, a no-bake Halloween treat that blends creamy pumpkin pudding with crunchy Oreo 'dirt'. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pudding1 can Evaporated Milk Provides creamy richness; replace with regular milk for lighter dessert.1 cup Pumpkin Puree Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling for the best results.1 packet Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix Try chocolate pudding mix for a richer profile.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Optional but highly recommended.1 cup Cool Whip Homemade whipped cream can be substituted.For the 'Dirt' Layer10 cookies Oreos (Crushed) Gluten-free Oreos are available for a gluten-free version.2 tablespoons Butter (Melted) Coconut oil can be a great alternative for a dairy-free version.For the Topping6 cookies Milano Cookies Shaped like tombstones.1 cup Chocolate Chips Used for decorating the Milano cookies. Equipment Mixing BowlElectric mixerServing glasses Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine evaporated milk, pumpkin puree, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and thick. Cover and refrigerate for 5 minutes.Gently stir in Cool Whip and cinnamon until fully incorporated. Keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.Crush Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter until combined. Set aside.Melt chocolate chips and use to decorate Milano cookies, writing 'RIP'. Allow to dry.Layer dessert starting with crushed Oreo mixture, then pumpkin pudding, and finish with another layer of Oreos.Insert decorated Milano cookies into the pudding layer and sprinkle additional chocolate chips around for decoration. Serve chilled. Nutrition Serving: 1parfaitCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 4mg NotesEnsure your pudding mixture is smooth, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, and add the Oreo layer before serving to maintain crunchiness. 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