Turtle Lasagna Dessert is a decadent, no-bake treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a layered, creamy dessert. Inspired by the beloved “Turtle” candies, this dessert features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, chocolate, and caramel sauce, along with a crunchy layer of crushed graham crackers and toasted pecans. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday, party, or casual get-together, Turtle Lasagna is sure to impress with its irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turtle Lasagna Dessert is everything you love about the classic turtle candy—rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans—but in a fun, layered dessert form. The creamy vanilla pudding and cool texture make it a refreshing treat, while the chocolate and caramel layers give it that indulgent, sweet flavor. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that comes together in no time, but looks and tastes like something special. Whether you serve it for a family gathering or a special occasion, this dessert will be a crowd favorite.

Turtle Lasagna Dessert

 

Ingredients

  • 1 package (12 oz) graham crackers (crushed)
  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (for whipping)
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a small bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Set aside.
  2. Make the pudding layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk. Let it set for about 2 minutes to thicken. Once thickened, gently fold in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  3. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully combined. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
  4. Add the caramel layer: Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the pudding layer, spreading it evenly.
  5. Add the chocolate and pecan layer: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until fully melted and smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer. Then, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the chocolate.
  6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld. Before serving, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness and garnish with more pecans if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-15
  • Total time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Variations

  • Chocolate crust: For a chocolate twist, mix in some cocoa powder with the graham cracker crumbs or use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for the base.
  • Caramel topping: Top the dessert with additional caramel sauce or drizzle salted caramel over the top for a salty-sweet contrast.
  • Nut-free version: If you have a nut allergy, simply omit the pecans and use a different topping like crushed cookies or mini chocolate chips.
  • Other toppings: Add a whipped cream topping before serving for extra creaminess, or sprinkle with chocolate shavings for an added touch of elegance.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep the Turtle Lasagna Dessert covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dessert is best served cold and is great for make-ahead preparations.
  • Freezing: This dessert can be frozen if you want to make it ahead of time. After assembling, cover tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge for several hours before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of whipping my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip) if you prefer, but homemade whipped cream gives the dessert a richer texture and flavor.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, Turtle Lasagna Dessert actually benefits from chilling overnight. The flavors meld together and the texture becomes even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

3. Can I make this dessert without caramel sauce?

If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can make your own by cooking sugar and butter, or you can simply leave it out and substitute with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a different flavor.

4. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, if you don’t like pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds as a substitute, or skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.

5. How do I make the pudding layer more stable?

If you want a firmer pudding layer, you can use a bit more instant pudding mix or add a small amount of gelatin to the mix to help it set more firmly.

6. Can I make this dessert without graham crackers?

Yes, you can substitute the graham crackers with crushed cookies like Oreos or even biscotti for a unique twist on the crust.

7. Can I make this dessert vegan?

To make it vegan, use non-dairy whipped cream and substitute the milk with a plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk). You can also find vegan caramel sauce to use in place of the traditional caramel sauce.

8. Can I use regular chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate if you prefer, depending on your taste.

9. Can I add a layer of fruit to this dessert?

Yes! Fresh fruit, like strawberries or bananas, can be added between the layers for a fresh, juicy contrast to the rich flavors.

10. How can I make this dessert less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of caramel sauce and use a sugar-free pudding mix for the filling.

Conclusion

Turtle Lasagna Dessert is the ultimate indulgence, combining the best flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a creamy, no-bake dessert. It’s a showstopper for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday parties. With its easy preparation, rich layers, and satisfying crunch, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Make it ahead of time for the best results, and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors that everyone will love!

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Turtle Lasagna Dessert

Turtle Lasagna Dessert


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  • Author: Chef MARTHA
  • Total Time: 4 hours (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 12-15 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Turtle Lasagna Dessert is a decadent, no-bake treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a layered, creamy dessert. Inspired by the classic ‘Turtle’ candies, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.


Ingredients

  • 1 package (12 oz) graham crackers (crushed)
  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (for whipping)
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a crust. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk. Let set for 2 minutes to thicken. Fold in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the pudding mixture until fully combined. Spread over the graham cracker crust.
  4. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the pudding layer, spreading evenly.
  5. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, then sprinkle with chopped pecans.
  6. Chill the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce before serving and garnish with more pecans if desired.

Notes

  • For a chocolate twist, use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for the base.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
  • This dessert can be made ahead and chilled overnight for better flavor.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and substitute with crushed cookies or chocolate chips.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 45g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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