Description
Turtle Lush is a decadent layered dessert featuring a buttery pecan crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, and luscious chocolate and vanilla pudding layers. Topped with whipped topping, caramel sauce, chopped pecans, and optional mini chocolate chips, this no-bake treat combines classic turtle candy flavors in a cool, creamy indulgence perfect for holidays and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
- 1 (3.9-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Topping
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and 3/4 cup chopped pecans. Mix until you get a crumbly dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 15–18 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely before adding the layers.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Prepare the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together both the instant chocolate and vanilla pudding mixes with the cold milk. Continue whisking for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Spread this pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add the whipped topping and toppings: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer evenly. Drizzle the caramel sauce on top, then sprinkle with the remaining chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips if using.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or until fully set. Once chilled, slice into 12 servings and serve cold for a deliciously rich treat.
Notes
- This make-ahead dessert is perfect for holidays or potlucks, as it can be prepared in advance and refrigerated.
- For a shortcut, substitute the flour crust with a chocolate graham cracker crust, which adds extra flavor with less prep time.
- Mini chocolate chips on top are optional but add a nice texture and extra chocolate goodness.
