Dessert

Turtle Lush Recipe

ByRafael Mansero January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

Introduction

Turtle Lush is a rich, layered dessert that combines creamy chocolate pudding, crunchy pecans, and a buttery Oreo crust. It’s perfect for gatherings or a special treat when you want something indulgent yet easy to make.

The image shows a slice of layered dessert on a white plate with a silver fork holding a bite of the dessert. The dessert has four distinct layers: the bottom dark crumbly cookie crust, the next thick white creamy layer, a smooth dark chocolate layer, and a top white creamy layer similar to the second. The top is covered in pecan nuts and drizzled with caramel and chocolate sauce, some dripping down the sides. In the background, there is a white dish with more of the dessert and another white plate with another slice, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups Oreo crumbs
8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
16 ounces of thawed whipped topping (divided)
1 5.9-ounce box of instant chocolate pudding mix
3 cups milk (cold)
1 cup of chopped pecans (divided)
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup chocolate syrup

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Oreo crumbs and melted butter together in a small bowl, then press the crumbs into the bottom of a 13×9-inch dish or pan. Set the crust in the freezer for about 20 minutes.
Step 2: While the crust is chilling, use an electric hand mixer to blend the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
Step 3: Add 8 ounces of whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture and continue mixing at low speed until well combined.
Step 4: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes to thicken further.
Step 5: Remove the crust from the freezer and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans on top and gently press them into the cream cheese layer.
Step 6: Spread the chocolate pudding layer over the pecans, then spread the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping evenly on top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 7: Just before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce and chocolate syrup over the dessert, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

Use double-stuffed Oreos for an extra creamy crust.
Toast the pecans lightly to enhance their flavor before adding.
For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with crushed pretzels for crunch.
Try swapping chocolate pudding with butterscotch or vanilla pudding for a different twist.

Storage

Store Turtle Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. Reheat is not recommended, as the dessert is best enjoyed cold and fresh.

How to Serve

A square slice of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture below. The dessert has four visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark, crumbly cookie crust; above it is a thick, white creamy layer; the middle layer is smooth and rich chocolate; followed by another white creamy layer. The top is covered in chopped pecans and drizzled with dark chocolate and golden caramel sauce, which drips slightly down the sides. In the background, there is a white dish showing more of the dessert and another white plate with a similar slice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Turtle Lush ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert tastes even better after chilling overnight, which allows all the layers to set properly.

Can I use regular crushed cookies instead of Oreos?

You can substitute with any chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs, but Oreos provide the classic flavor and texture that works best for this recipe.

Rafael Mansero