Description

Turtle Lush is a decadent no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy pecan-graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, rich chocolate pudding, and a luscious caramel topping with pecans, inspired by classic turtle candy.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup chopped pecans (for crust)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 1/2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)

1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

2 cups milk

1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup chopped pecans (for topping)

Extra chocolate chips or melted chocolate (optional, for drizzling)

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 1/4 cup chopped pecans. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Chill in the fridge.
Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping gently. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
Whisk instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Pour over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the pudding layer. Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped pecans on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Optional: Before serving, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle extra chopped pecans for garnish.

Notes

Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for variation.

Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for fresher taste.

Add mini chocolate chips between pudding and caramel layers for extra texture.

Use dark chocolate pudding or add melted chocolate layer for richer flavor.

Make gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or crushed nuts.

Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days; serve chilled, do not reheat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake, Layered
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximate)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg