Wilderness Recipe – Dirt n’ Worms Dessert

While some people choose to go ultra-light and skip dessert when Alaska backpacking, I have to argue. You’re outside working hard and burning energy, and dessert is a great (and very enjoyable) way to get back those extra calories! Here’s a dessert that I added to the SEAG Recipe Book that has quickly become a crowd favorite! Whether you’re aged 5 or 95, you’re never too old for some Dirt n’ Worms.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients:

1 package of instant chocolate pudding
Powdered milk (to make as much milk as pudding directions require)
½ sleeve of Oreos
8 gummy worms (make sure you have a worm or two per person!)

Cooking Equipment Needed: 1 pot, serving spoon

Directions:

This recipe is great when it’s chilly in the evenings, giving it the correct temperature to “set.” When packing, place Oreos in Ziploc bag and crush into tiny pieces. Gather remaining ingredients. Out in the field, prior to cooking dinner, prepare package of chocolate pudding in a small pot per the pudding instructions. Instructions usually advise against using powdered milk, but it works just fine. Mix in the gummy worms with the pudding. Mix ½ of the crushed Oreos in with the pudding to create a “lumpy” texture. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top of the pudding/worm/Oreo mixture and allow to set while you make and eat dinner.

Alternate Recipe: Substitute Alaska Grizzly Bears (gummy bears) for worms when backpacking in Alaska!

Bon Appetit!

Since 1978, St. Elias Alpine Guides has been the oldest continuously operating outfitter in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, guiding thousands of adventures across its 13.2 million acres. With over 40 years of experience and a team of more than 45 expertly trained guides, we continue to explore uncharted terrain and share our passion for Alaska’s wilderness. Explore our day trips, multi-day trips, and courses, or schedule a call to speak with one of our Alaska adventure experts.