Easy Oreo Mud Pie – A Chilled Summer Delight

A Family Favorite from My Grandmother’s Kitchen

When summer rolled around in my childhood, my grandmother’s kitchen would turn into a haven of cool treats. While others were firing up grills, Nonna would pull out her secret weapon for keeping everyone happy and refreshed: her easy Oreo mud pie. A no-bake marvel layered with creamy pudding, whipped topping, and a crust that dreams are made of—this dessert became the highlight of our sun-soaked afternoons.

Though she was known for her traditional Italian pastries, this American-style chilled dessert was her playful way of embracing new traditions. And now, I’m thrilled to share my spin on it, still faithful to her simplicity and summer charm.

Why You’ll Love This Easy No-Bake Dessert

This Oreo mud pie is the embodiment of easy no-bake desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for something quick for a potluck or backyard BBQ, this recipe delivers in both flavor and ease. It’s cool, creamy, chocolatey, and requires zero oven time. What’s not to love?

Key Highlights:

• No baking required – Ideal for hot summer days.
• Quick prep – Ready in just 20 minutes (plus chilling time).
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for gatherings.
• Customizable – Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or crushed candy for variation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a simple list of ingredients—most of which you probably already have on hand:

• 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups cold whole milk
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 24 Oreo cookies (for the crust and topping)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Servings: 7

1. Prepare the Oreo Crust

• Place 20 Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs.
• Mix the cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish, forming a firm crust.
• Chill the crust in the fridge while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Chocolate Pudding Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold whole milk.
• Whisk for about 2 minutes until the pudding begins to thicken.
• Let it sit for 5 minutes to set.

3. Fold in Whipped Topping

• Gently fold in 1½ cups of the whipped topping until fully combined.
• The mixture should be light, creamy, and mousse-like.

4. Assemble the Mud Pie

• Pour the pudding mixture into the chilled Oreo crust.
• Smooth out the top using a spatula.

5. Top with Whipped Cream and Crushed Oreos

• Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
• Crush the remaining 4 Oreos and sprinkle them over the top.

6. Chill and Serve

• Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
• Slice and serve chilled. Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or mini chocolate chips if you’re feeling indulgent!

Tips for the Perfect Oreo Mud Pie

• Use cold milk – For instant pudding to set properly, the milk must be cold.
• Don’t overmix the whipped topping – Gently folding helps maintain that airy, mousse-like texture.
• Crust options – Swap the Oreo crust with a graham cracker base if preferred.
• Add-ons – Peanut butter chips, caramel drizzle, or crushed mint candies can give it a fun twist.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This dessert holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead option for parties or weeknight treats.

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Let thaw slightly before slicing.

FAQs About Easy No-Bake Desserts

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes! You can whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form as a substitute.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust and topping.

Is it kid-friendly?

Absolutely. In fact, kids love helping crush the Oreos and layer the ingredients!