Dessert

Turtle Lasagna Dessert Recipe

ByElla Hart December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Introduction

Turtle Lasagna is a no-bake layered dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and caramel flavors for a delightful treat. With a crunchy cookie crust and a luscious mix of pudding and whipped toppings, it’s perfect for gatherings or satisfying your sweet tooth at home.

A square piece of dessert sits on a white plate with a delicate pattern. The dessert has four visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark, crumbly crust with nuts and chocolate bits; above that is a thick, smooth creamy white layer; on top of the cream is a sticky, chunky brown caramel and nut mixture; and the topmost layer is covered in glossy dark chocolate chips with a drizzle of caramel sauce adding shine and texture. The plate rests on a green cloth, and a silver fork is placed nearby on the left side. The background is softly blurred with a white marbled texture visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
1 3/4 cups cold milk
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup chocolate sauce

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Refrigerate to chill while preparing the other layers.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping gently until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the chocolate pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top, then drizzle with caramel and chocolate sauces.
Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is firm and well chilled.
Step 6: Slice and serve chilled to enjoy the rich, layered flavors of this turtle-inspired dessert.

Tips & Variations

Use a food processor to finely crush the cookies for a smoother crust texture.
Swap pecans for walnuts or skip nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Make the dessert a day ahead for best flavor melding and ease of serving.
Try using dark chocolate pudding for a richer chocolate flavor.

Storage

Store the turtle lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing. This dessert is not suitable for freezing as the texture may suffer.

How to Serve

A square slice of dessert sits center on a white plate with a detailed edge, placed on a green cloth. The dessert has four layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly mix with a dark brown and chopped nut texture, the second layer is smooth and creamy white, the third layer is a sticky caramel-toned layer with shredded bits and chocolate pieces, and the top layer is a glossy light caramel drizzle with scattered small dark chocolate chips. A fork rests to the left side of the plate. The background shows part of a white plate with leaf patterns and a stack of white plates, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust for this dessert?

Yes, graham cracker crumbs or chocolate graham crackers can be used instead of chocolate cookies for a different texture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and pudding mix, but be sure to choose compatible brands and check for proper thickening and flavor balance.