Description
No Bake Turtle Lush is a decadent layered dessert featuring a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, smooth chocolate pudding, and a luscious topping of caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for those who want an impressive dessert without turning on the oven, this no-bake recipe is customizable and easy to prepare, making it ideal for parties and anytime sweet cravings strike.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 24 Oreo cookies (regular or gluten-free), crushed into fine crumbs
- 6 tablespoons 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) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Toppings
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Optional: whipped cream for garnish
- Optional: mini chocolate chips for added texture
- Optional: sea salt for contrast
Instructions
- Prepare the Oreo Crust: Using a food processor, blend the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs thoroughly with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even crust. Refrigerate the crust to set while you prepare the next layers.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light and airy texture. Spread this cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust.
- Whisk Up the Chocolate Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until the pudding thickens, about 2 minutes. Pour and evenly spread this pudding layer over the cream cheese filling.
- Top with Caramel and Pecans: Generously drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate syrup over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly on top to add a crunchy finish. Optionally, add whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, or a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavors and textures.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results to allow the layers to set properly. When ready, slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing, indulgent treat.
Notes
- This dessert can be made a day in advance to enhance flavor and texture.
- For a nut-free version, replace pecans with crushed pretzels or candy pieces.
- Add extra chocolate by layering ganache or mixing mini chocolate chips into the pudding layer.
- For a fruity twist, top with sliced strawberries or bananas before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: No bake dessert, Turtle Lush, layered dessert, Oreo crust, chocolate pudding, cream cheese, caramel sauce, easy dessert, party dessert
