No Bake Turtle Lush Recipe

ByAndria Russo
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Introduction

No Bake Turtle Lush is a decadent layered dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy filling, and crunchy pecans without ever needing the oven. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for gatherings or a special indulgence at home.

A square layered dessert with six clear layers sits on a white marbled textured surface. The bottom layer is a dark brown crumbly crust. Above it is a thin dark chocolate layer. The third layer is light cream colored with some chocolate pieces mixed in. The fourth layer is a caramel layer filled with crushed nuts or candies. The fifth layer is a thick creamy off-white layer with chocolate bits running through it. On top is a smooth, dark chocolate layer generously covered with chopped nuts and chocolate pieces, giving a rough, textured look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • Crushed Oreo cookies (regular or gluten-free) – for the crust
  • Melted butter – to bind the crust
  • Cream cheese – softened, for the filling
  • Powdered sugar – to sweeten the cream cheese layer
  • Whipped topping – to lighten the cream cheese filling
  • Chocolate pudding mix
  • Milk – cold, to prepare the pudding
  • Caramel sauce – for drizzling on top
  • Chocolate syrup – for an additional drizzle
  • Chopped pecans – for crunch and garnish
  • Optional: Whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, sea salt

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Blend the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill in the refrigerator to set the crust.
  2. Step 2: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping for a light, airy texture. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust.
  3. Step 3: Combine the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk and whisk until thickened. Spread the pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate syrup generously over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for crunch. Optionally, add whipped cream and mini chocolate chips as garnish.
  5. Step 5: Refrigerate the dish for at least 4 hours or overnight to let layers set and flavors meld. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

  • For a nut-free version, replace pecans with crushed pretzels or candy pieces for added texture.
  • Boost the chocolate flavor by adding a ganache layer or folding mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling.
  • Top with fresh sliced strawberries or bananas for a fruity twist.
  • Use gluten-free Oreo cookies and almond milk to customize this dessert to dietary needs.
  • For pudding prep tips, you can visit Taste Cooking.

Storage

Store the No Bake Turtle Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve to maintain texture and flavor. Leftovers reheat best served cold or at room temperature; avoid microwaving to preserve the creamy layers.

How to Serve

The image shows a square layered dessert with five distinct layers on a white plate. The bottom layer is a dark brown crumbly crust. Above this is a thick, creamy beige layer with a smooth texture. The third layer is a mix of darker caramel and bits of nuts or chocolate, adding a rough texture and rich color. On top of this is a thick, creamy light beige layer with a soft, smooth look. The top layer is a glossy, dark chocolate ganache covered with chopped nuts and crushed chocolate pieces, giving a rough, crunchy texture on the surface. The dessert is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, making No Bake Turtle Lush a day ahead actually enhances its flavor and texture by allowing the layers to set properly.

How long does it last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dessert stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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No Bake Turtle Lush Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 86 reviews
  • Author: Andria
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

No Bake Turtle Lush is a rich and indulgent layered dessert featuring a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and luscious chocolate pudding topped with caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor and an impressive presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 24 Oreo cookies (regular or gluten-free), crushed
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

Chocolate Layer

  • 1 package (3.9 oz) chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Optional Additions

  • Whipped cream for garnish
  • Mini chocolate chips for extra texture
  • A pinch of sea salt for contrast

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oreo Crust: Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully combined. Evenly press the mixture firmly into the base of a 9×13-inch dish. Place the crust in the refrigerator and chill until set, about 15-30 minutes.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light and airy texture. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust to form the second layer.
  3. Whisk Up the Chocolate Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, spread the chocolate pudding layer smoothly over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Top with Caramel and Pecans: Generously drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate syrup over the chocolate pudding layer. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top for a crunchy finish. Optionally, add dollops of whipped cream or mini chocolate chips as garnishes. A pinch of sea salt can be added for a subtle flavor contrast.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. When ready, slice the Turtle Lush into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing, indulgent treat.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free Oreo cookies to make this dessert gluten-free.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with crushed pretzels or candy pieces.
  • Adding mini chocolate chips between layers enhances texture and flavor.
  • Make this dessert a day ahead to improve flavor and texture for best results.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: no bake dessert, turtle lush, Oreo crust, cream cheese filling, chocolate pudding, caramel sauce dessert, easy layered dessert, gluten-free dessert, decadent no bake treat

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