Description
This No-Bake Turtle Lasagna Dessert is a decadent layered treat featuring the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and creamy cheesecake. With layers of graham crackers, smooth cream cheese filling, chocolate pudding, and crunchy pecans, it’s a simple yet impressive dessert perfect for any occasion that requires minimal preparation and no baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 package of graham crackers
Nutty & Sweet Layers
- 1 cup of chopped pecans
- 1 cup of caramel sauce
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 1 cup of chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups of milk
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
Topping
- 1 container of whipped topping (approximately 8 oz)
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Make Chocolate Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix with 3 cups of milk. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens to pudding consistency, about 3-5 minutes.
- Layer Graham Crackers: In a 9×13 inch dish, evenly arrange a single layer of graham crackers covering the bottom of the dish.
- Spread Cream Cheese Layer: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of graham crackers, creating a smooth surface.
- Add Chocolate Pudding Layer: Spoon half of the chocolate pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it carefully to cover all areas.
- Add Caramel and Pecans: Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the pudding layer, then sprinkle half of the chopped pecans evenly on top to add crunch and flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining cream cheese mixture, then the remaining chocolate pudding, caramel sauce, and chopped pecans.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Finish the dessert by spreading the whipped topping evenly over the final layer.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the layers to set and the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and whole milk to achieve a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing for easier blending.
- Adjust the amount of caramel sauce according to your sweetness preference.
- To make ahead, prepare the dessert and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water for cleaner slicing of the lasagna layers.
- Substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: no bake dessert, turtle lasagna, chocolate pudding dessert, caramel pecan dessert, easy layered dessert, graham cracker dessert
