This Easy Turtle Lush Dessert is a delightful treat layered with creamy pudding, whipped topping, and crunchy chocolate. Plus, it has a sweet caramel drizzle that makes it even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: These are perfect for making a crunchy and tasty crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies instead.
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter version, try using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still gives a creamy result.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This provides the fluffy layer of your dessert. If you want a non-dairy option, coconut cream works great as a substitute.
Pecans: These add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. If you have nut allergies, feel free to skip them or use sunflower seeds instead!
How Do You Keep Your Layers from Mixing Together?
To achieve clear layers in your Turtle Lush Dessert, make sure each layer is evenly spread and fully set before adding the next one. Here are some tips:
- Allow each layer to chill in the refrigerator for a bit to firm up. Set your timer for about 30 minutes between layers for best results.
- Spread each layer gently, especially the whipped cream. Use a spatula to carefully smooth it out without disturbing the layer underneath.
- Your crust should be completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting and mixing.
How to Make Easy Turtle Lush Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies (for crust)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup milk (for pudding)
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Turtle Lush Dessert takes about 30 minutes of active prep time, plus 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. So plan for around 4.5 hours in total to enjoy this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, take your Oreo cookies and crush them finely, including the cream filling. Mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter until everything is well combined. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Bake your crust for about 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip 1.5 cups of heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until they are nicely combined. Spread half of this mixture evenly over the cooled Oreo crust.
3. Create the Pudding Layer:
Grab another bowl and whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk. Let this sit for about 5 minutes to set up. Once set, spread the chocolate pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer. In a clean bowl, whip the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Then, spread this whipped cream over the pudding layer.
4. Add the Toppings & Chill:
Now comes the fun part! Drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate syrup generously over the top of your dessert. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the entire dessert and add a few more on top for decoration. Cover your dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow it to set perfectly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, slice your Turtle Lush Dessert into squares and serve cold. Enjoy every delicious bite of this decadent treat!
FAQ for Easy Turtle Lush Dessert
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While Oreos provide a tasty chocolate flavor, you can use other chocolate cookies, graham crackers, or even vanilla cookies if you prefer a different taste. Just ensure they’re finely crushed and mixed with butter.
What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?
No problem! You can use cool whip for the whipped layers instead of heavy whipping cream. Just fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture and use it for the topping, following the same amounts in the recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Turtle Lush Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, so enjoy it straight from the fridge!
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the pudding mix and toppings, are labeled gluten-free as well.
