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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
