Dessert

Turtle Lasagna Dessert Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon December 19, 2025December 19, 2025

Introduction

This Turtle Lasagna Dessert is a rich and creamy treat that combines chocolate, caramel, and pecans in delightful layers. It’s easy to assemble and perfect for gatherings or a special indulgence 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. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the other layers.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top, then drizzle with caramel sauce and chocolate sauce.
Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm and chilled.
Step 6: Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the delicious layers of this turtle-inspired dessert!

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them as a topping.
You can substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with graham cracker crumbs for a different flavor.
Use dark chocolate or caramel sauce based on your preference for richer or sweeter toppings.

Storage

Store leftover turtle lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, simply slice and enjoy chilled. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping layer may lose its texture.

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 make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a few hours ahead or even the day before to allow the layers to set properly and blend flavors.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely, fresh whipped cream works well and adds a delightful homemade touch to the dessert.

Gabriel Langdon