Dessert

No Bake Turtle Lush Recipe

BySarah Summers November 25, 2025November 25, 2025

Introduction

No Bake Turtle Lush is a decadent layered dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy fillings, and crunchy pecans without ever needing to turn on the oven. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a sweet indulgence at home.

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

Crushed Oreo cookies (regular or gluten-free) – for the crust
Melted butter – to bind the crust
Cream cheese – softened
Powdered sugar
Whipped topping
Chocolate pudding mix
Milk
Caramel sauce
Chocolate syrup
Chopped pecans
Optional: Whipped cream for garnish
Optional: Mini chocolate chips
Optional: Sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo crust by blending the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined, then press the mixture firmly into the base of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill in the refrigerator to set.
Step 2: Make the cream cheese layer by beating softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping for a light, airy texture, then spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Whisk together the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Drizzle generous amounts of caramel sauce and chocolate syrup over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans to add crunch. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream for extra fluffiness.
Step 5: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute chopped pecans with crushed pretzels or candy pieces.
Add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer or sprinkle on top for extra texture and chocolate flavor.
A sprinkle of sea salt on the caramel drizzle enhances the dessert’s sweetness with a subtle contrast.
Top the dessert with sliced strawberries or bananas for a fresh, fruity twist.
Use gluten-free Oreo cookies and almond milk to make the recipe dairy-free and gluten-free.

Storage

Store this dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve to maintain the textures and flavors. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for a softer cream cheese layer.

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, No Bake Turtle Lush can be made up to 24 hours ahead. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the layers to firm up and flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?

Absolutely! Homemade chocolate pudding can be used as a substitute. Just be sure it has a thick consistency before spreading over the cream cheese layer.

Sarah Summers