Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe
If you’re craving something insanely easy, chocolatey, and downright addictive, you’ve got to try this Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe. It’s one of those desserts I throw together when I want to impress with almost zero effort, yet it still feels like a showstopper. Plus, it hits all the right sweet spots with that combo of Oreo crunch, creamy pudding, and cakey goodness. Stick around and I’ll tell you all my tips and tweaks so you can nail this at home!
Why This Recipe Works
- Simplicity at its Finest: Just a handful of ingredients combined without fuss makes this recipe perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert cravings.
- Texture Contrast: The crunch from Oreos, silky chocolate pudding, and cakey top create an irresistible medley of textures in every bite.
- No Mixing Bowls Clutter: Layering ingredients right in the dish saves time and cleanup, making baking a joy rather than a chore.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Chocolate and Oreo lovers will rave about this classic flavor combo that feels both nostalgic and special.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe plays a key role. They come together effortlessly but bring something unique to the party — from buttery richness to creamy pudding and that iconic Oreo crunch. When shopping, aim for quality Oreos and a good chocolate cake mix because they really lift the flavors here.
- Oreo Cookies: These crushed cookies provide crunch and chocolate cream filling that melts into the layers, balancing crunch and creaminess.
- Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: Quick to prepare and lends that creamy, chocolatey softness you want under the cake layer.
- Cold Milk: Helps the pudding set perfectly; I always use cold milk straight from the fridge for a thicker, smoother pudding.
- Chocolate Cake Mix: Covers the base with a cakey top that bakes into a slightly crisp, yet soft crust—a vital texture contrast.
- Unsalted Butter: The golden drizzle that crisps and flavors the cake mix on top without making it greasy.
- Whipped Topping: Adds a light, cool finish to the warm cake, making every bite feel luxurious.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (optional): Sprinkled on top for extra melty chocolate bursts, always a crowd-pleaser in my house.
- Extra Oreos (optional): Perfect for garnishing if you want that extra “wow” factor when serving friends or family.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love how easy it is to personalize this Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe. Sometimes I add a handful of chopped nuts for crunch, or swap the chocolate pudding for vanilla to change up the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment and make it your own – that’s what baking should be, right?
- Variation: When I’ve tried adding peanut butter swirls on top before baking, it made the flavor even richer—a definite treat for peanut butter lovers.
- Dietary Modification: Using dairy-free pudding mix and whipped topping works well if you’re avoiding dairy, so this cake can be made allergy-friendly.
- Seasonal Changes: Around holidays, I swap Oreos for peppermint Oreos, which gives a festive twist that everyone enjoys.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Oreo Base
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Chop those Oreos roughly—don’t worry about being too neat here; I like a mix of chunks and crumbs for the best texture. Spread them evenly over the bottom of the dish to form that crisp, chocolaty foundation.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Chocolate Pudding
Grab a medium bowl and whisk your instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens—usually about two minutes. This is the magic step that gives the dessert its creamy middle layer. Pour the pudding evenly over the crushed Oreos, smoothing it out gently with a spoon.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix and Butter
Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly on top of the pudding layer. Then, drizzle your melted butter over the cake mix—it might look like a lot, but it’s what crisps the top into that irresistible crust. I usually try to cover as much surface as possible with melted butter to avoid dry spots in the finished cake.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be set and slightly crisp, with the aromas of chocolate filling your kitchen. After baking, let the cake cool for 10 minutes—this helps it firm up just enough for serving.
Step 5: Finish with Whipped Topping & Extras
Finally, spread a generous layer of your favorite whipped topping on the warm cake. Sprinkle on mini chocolate chips and some extra Oreos if you’re feeling fancy. This last touch adds that cool creaminess and extra chocolate pop that makes every bite a winner. Serve it warm or at room temperature—it’s delicious both ways!
Pro Tips for Making Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe
- Butter Distribution: Melt your butter slowly and use a spoon or small brush to drizzle evenly, ensuring the cake’s top crisps uniformly.
- Pudding Prep: Use cold milk straight from the fridge for the pudding—they don’t call it instant for nothing—but colder milk gives a firmer set.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake after 30 minutes; you want a slightly crisp top but a moist inside, so don’t let it dry out.
- Serving Warm or Cool: This cake is amazing warm from the oven but also delicious cooled – letting it sit helps layers meld and flavor deepen.
How to Serve Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Garnishes
I love topping this cake with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence. A few extra Oreo crumbs or mini chocolate chips scattered on top add not only visual appeal but a delightful crunch with every bite.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own, but if you’re serving a dessert buffet, I like to pair it with fresh berries or a bowl of tangy raspberry sauce to cut through the sweetness. It balances things nicely and makes your dessert spread feel more sophisticated.
Creative Ways to Present
For birthday parties, I’ve dug the cake out into small jars layered with extra whipped cream to make cute parfaits. It’s also great in mini ramekins topped with a single Oreo for a beautiful individual serving that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually cover leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember that the whipped topping might get a bit watery when chilled, so I sometimes add fresh whipped cream before serving leftovers.
Freezing
Freezing works surprisingly well if you skip the whipped topping first. Freeze the cake covered tightly in foil or an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then add fresh whipped topping before serving for best results.
Reheating
I gently reheat leftover slices in a microwave for around 20 seconds or in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes. This brings warmth back to the pudding and cakey layers without drying it out. Then I add fresh whipped topping to revive that creamy finish.
FAQs
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Can I use a different kind of cookie instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! While Oreos are classic here, you could try other chocolate sandwich cookies or even crushed chocolate chip cookies for a slightly different texture and flavor—just be mindful the cream filling helps hold the layers together.
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Is there a gluten-free version of this Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute with gluten-free chocolate cake mix and gluten-free sandwich cookies. Just check your pudding mix ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free too for a safe and tasty alternative.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare it up until baking, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just bake as usual, then top with whipped cream before serving. Just avoid topping with whipped cream before refrigerating as it can get watery.
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How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Look for a set top that is slightly crisp around the edges but not burned. The cake mix on top shouldn’t look wet anymore. If you gently shake the pan, the center should be set but the pudding underneath will stay creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe really is one of my all-time favorites for quick chocolate desserts that feel special. I love how it gets you from pantry staples to a luscious, crowd-pleasing treat in under an hour. Whether you’re baking it for family, friends, or just yourself, I think you’ll find it becomes a go-to dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious—give it a try, and get ready for the compliments!
Print
Oreo Dump Cake with Chocolate Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Oreo Dump Cake recipe combines layers of Oreo cookies, instant chocolate pudding, chocolate cake mix, and melted butter to create a rich, decadent dessert topped with whipped topping and optional mini chocolate chips. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 24 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Extra Oreo cookies for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Oreos: Spread the roughly chopped Oreo cookies evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming the base layer.
- Prepare Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Pour this pudding layer evenly over the Oreos in the baking dish.
- Add Cake Mix and Butter: Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the pudding layer, then drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the top. Make sure the butter covers as much of the surface as possible to ensure moistness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly crisp. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Spread the whipped topping over the cooled cake. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and extra Oreo cookies on top if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Use cold milk to ensure the pudding thickens quickly and properly.
- For extra creaminess, allow the whipped topping to come to room temperature before spreading.
- You can substitute any flavored instant pudding mix to customize the cake.
- Optional mini chocolate chips add a nice texture but can be omitted if preferred.
- This dessert can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8 of cake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg