Turtle Lasagna Dessert Recipe

Introduction

This Turtle Lasagna dessert is a decadent no-bake treat that layers creamy, chocolatey goodness with crunchy pecans and rich caramel. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings or a special homemade indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 1 3/4 cups cold milk
• 1 cup whipped topping
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 1/4 cup chocolate sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layers.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping gently. Spread this cream cheese layer over the chilled crust evenly.
3. Step 3: Prepare the chocolate pudding according to package instructions by whisking the pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding layer over the cream cheese layer in the dish.
4. Step 4: Top the pudding with the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping, spreading it evenly.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the whipped topping layer.
6. Step 6: Drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate sauce over the top as a finishing touch.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the layered dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.

Tips & Variations

• To enhance the chocolate flavor, use fudge-covered cookie crumbs or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the pudding mix.
• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and sprinkle crushed cookies or chocolate chips instead.
• Substitute caramel sauce with butterscotch or dulce de leche for a different sweet twist.
• Make individual servings in small cups or jars for easy portioning and presentation.

Storage

Store the Turtle Lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the creamy texture. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold directly from the fridge—no reheating required.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used for a fresher taste and lighter texture, just be sure to stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar to maintain firmness in the layers.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This no-bake dessert benefits from chilling overnight as it allows the layers to set and flavors to blend beautifully.

Turtle Lasagna Dessert Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 64 reviews

This Turtle Lasagna Dessert is a decadent no-bake layered treat featuring a chocolate cookie crumb crust, a rich cream cheese layer, silky chocolate pudding, and topped with whipped topping, crunchy pecans, and drizzles of caramel and chocolate sauce. Perfect for chocolate and caramel lovers looking for an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Chocolate Pudding Layer:

• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 1 3/4 cups cold milk

Toppings:

• 1 cup whipped topping
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 1/4 cup chocolate sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare Crust: Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted unsalted butter in a bowl and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust layer. Refrigerate while preparing the next layers.
2. Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust layer.
3. Prepare Chocolate Pudding: Whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups of cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
4. Add Toppings: Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top. Drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate sauce over the entire dessert to finish.
5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the turtle lasagna for at least 4 hours or until set to allow all layers to meld perfectly. Serve chilled and enjoy this luscious chocolate caramel dessert.

Notes

• For the best texture, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly whipped topping.
• To make the crust, any chocolate sandwich cookies can be used as a substitute if Oreos are unavailable.
• This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated to enhance flavor melding.
• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or use a nut-free topping alternative.
• Use high-quality caramel and chocolate sauces for the best taste and presentation.

Keywords: Turtle Lasagna, no-bake dessert, chocolate pudding, caramel dessert, layered dessert, easy dessert recipe