No Bake Turtle Lush Recipe

ByZoe Lane
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Introduction

No Bake Turtle Lush is a decadent layered dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy filling, and crunchy pecans without requiring any baking. It’s perfect for busy days when you want an impressive treat with minimal effort. This indulgent dessert is sure to become a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions.

The image shows a thick square slice of dessert with five visible layers. The bottom layer is a dark brown crumbly crust. Above it is a smooth cream-colored layer. The middle layer is a golden caramel mixed with bits of crunchy nuts. Above that is a thick cream layer with scattered chocolate pieces inside. The top layer is a thick, glossy dark chocolate ganache, sprinkled generously with chopped nuts and chocolate chunks. The dessert is placed on a reflective surface with a white marbled texture in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed Oreo cookies (regular or gluten-free)
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping
  • 1 package chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • Caramel sauce, for drizzling
  • Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • Optional: whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, sea salt

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Oreo crust by blending the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly into the base of a 9×13-inch dish and chill in the refrigerator to set.
  2. Step 2: Make the cream cheese layer by beating the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light, airy texture. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
  3. Step 3: Whisk the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Spread the pudding 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. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream for extra flair.
  5. Step 5: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

  • For a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with crushed pretzels or candy pieces for crunch.
  • Add mini chocolate chips to the pudding layer for extra texture and chocolate flavor.
  • Top with sliced strawberries or bananas to introduce a fresh, fruity contrast.
  • Use gluten-free cookies and almond milk to accommodate dietary preferences.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.

Storage

Store the No Bake Turtle Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve for the best texture. If needed, you can let slices sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a multi-layered dessert square sits on a white plate over a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is a crumbly, dark brown crust with a slightly rough texture. Above it is a thin glossy dark chocolate layer. Next is a thick creamy beige layer that looks soft and smooth, followed by a thin layer of brown caramel with chunks of nuts or candy mixed in. Another layer of the creamy beige filling is on top of the caramel. The topmost layer is a thick smooth dark chocolate glaze, covered with chopped mixed nuts and chocolate pieces that add a rough, uneven texture. 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, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. Refrigerate it for several hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely. While Oreo cookies provide a classic flavor, feel free to use any crushed cookies you prefer, such as graham crackers, chocolate wafers, or gluten-free options.

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No Bake Turtle Lush Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 63 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • 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 creamy cream cheese layer, smooth chocolate pudding, and decadent caramel and chocolate drizzles topped with crunchy pecans. Perfect for those who want an impressive, no-bake treat that’s easy to assemble and customize.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 24 Oreo cookies (regular or gluten-free), crushed
  • 5 tablespoons melted butter

Cream Cheese Filling

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

Chocolate Layer

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

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans

Optional Additions

  • Whipped cream for garnish
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oreo Crust: Blend the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until combined thoroughly. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a 9×13-inch dish to create an even crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the next layer.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain a light and airy texture. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust.
  3. Whisk Up the Chocolate Pudding: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk. Whisk continuously until the pudding thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread this thickened chocolate pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Top with Caramel and Pecans: Drizzle generous amounts of caramel sauce and chocolate syrup over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly on top for a crunchy finish. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream and sprinkle mini chocolate chips or a pinch of sea salt for added texture and 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. Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and delectable treat.

Notes

  • This dessert requires no baking, making it quick and easy to prepare.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with crushed pretzels or candy pieces.
  • You can customize by adding a layer of ganache or mixing mini chocolate chips into the pudding.
  • Fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas can be added for a fruity twist.
  • Make sure cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth filling.
  • Using gluten-free Oreos makes this recipe gluten-free friendly.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: No Bake Turtle Lush, Oreo crust dessert, chocolate pudding dessert, caramel pecan dessert, easy layered dessert, no bake dessert

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