This indulgent no-bake turtle dessert is a layered masterpiece of crushed Oreo cookie crust, sweetened whipped cream cheese, caramel-vanilla pudding, and plenty of chopped turtle candies and peanuts. A rich, chilled dessert that captures the flavors of the beloved chocolate-caramel-pecan confection in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no-bake turtle dessert offers everything you want in a decadent treat—layers of creamy, crunchy, and gooey textures all in one pan. It’s quick to prepare, requires no oven, and is perfect for making ahead. The flavor of classic turtle candies is captured beautifully through caramel pudding, chocolate cookies, crunchy peanuts, and soft pecan-studded clusters. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, potluck, or craving a luxurious sweet fix, this dessert delivers on every level.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

36 chocolate sandwich cookies (with cream), crushed
6 tbsp salted butter, melted
2 tbsp salted butter, softened (for greasing)
16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
¾ cup powdered sugar
16 oz whipped topping, thawed (divided)
2 cups cold whole milk
6.8 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
1½ tsp caramel flavoring
1 cup chopped dry roasted peanuts, divided
2½ cups chopped turtle candies (chocolate-caramel-pecan clusters), divided
Chocolate syrup, optional
Caramel sundae syrup, optional

Directions

Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of softened butter.
In a bowl, mix the crushed sandwich cookies with melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the dish. Refrigerate to set.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth, about 1 to 1½ minutes. Add powdered sugar and 1 cup of whipped topping, and beat until fully blended.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return the dish to the refrigerator.
In a clean bowl, whisk the cold milk, vanilla pudding mix, and caramel flavoring using a hand mixer on medium-low speed until just thickened, about 1 minute.
Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully incorporated.
Sprinkle ½ cup of chopped peanuts and 1 cup of chopped turtle candies over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle with 1–2 tablespoons each of chocolate and caramel syrup, if using.
Spread the pudding mixture evenly on top of the candy layer. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours.
Before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the set pudding layer. Garnish with the remaining peanuts and turtle candies. Drizzle with more syrup, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 420 kcal

Variations

Nut-free version: Use chopped pretzels instead of peanuts and nut-free chocolate clusters.
Chocolate pudding: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate for a deeper cocoa flavor.
From-scratch pudding: Make homemade caramel pudding if preferred over instant.
Add a brownie base: Replace the cookie crust with brownie squares for extra indulgence.
Mini cups: Assemble in individual dessert cups for parties or portion control.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container without the final whipped topping layer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and top before serving.
Reheating: This dessert is intended to be served chilled. Do not heat.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel pudding instead of making it?

Yes, you can substitute ready-made caramel pudding for convenience, but the flavor may be slightly different.

What are turtle candies?

Turtle candies are chocolate clusters filled with caramel and pecans. They provide the signature flavor of this dessert.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, it’s ideal for preparing a day ahead. Keep refrigerated and garnish just before serving.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, a graham cracker or chocolate chip cookie crust would work as alternatives.

Is there a substitute for whipped topping?

You can use homemade stabilized whipped cream, though texture and shelf life may differ.

Can I use sugar-free pudding and cookies?

Yes, for a lower-sugar version, use sugar-free pudding, sugar-free sandwich cookies, and light whipped topping.

Will this work in a larger pan?

Yes, you can double the ingredients for a 9×13-inch dish. Adjust layering and chilling time as needed.

How do I keep the layers neat?

Chill each layer before adding the next and use a flat spatula to spread evenly.

Can I add a layer of ganache?

Yes, a thin layer of chocolate ganache between the crust and cream cheese layer adds extra richness.

Do I need to use caramel flavoring?

Caramel flavoring enhances the pudding, but you can omit it if your turtle candies or syrups are strong in flavor.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Turtle Dessert with Oreo Crust and Caramel Pudding is a celebration of everything indulgent—chocolate, caramel, cream, and crunch. Easy to make, make-ahead friendly, and beautifully layered, it’s the perfect centerpiece for gatherings or special nights in. If you’re a fan of turtle candies, this dessert is an absolute must-try.

No-Bake Turtle Dessert with Oreo Crust and Caramel Pudding

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This rich, creamy no-bake turtle dessert features a buttery Oreo crust, whipped cream cheese layer, caramel-infused vanilla pudding, and generous amounts of chopped turtle candies and peanuts. A decadent, chilled treat inspired by classic turtle candies — perfect for any sweet occasion.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 9 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of softened butter.
Combine crushed sandwich cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the dish. Refrigerate to set.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and vanilla until smooth (about 1–1½ minutes). Add powdered sugar and 1 cup of whipped topping, then mix again until fully blended.
Spread the cream cheese layer evenly over the chilled crust. Return the dish to the refrigerator.
In a clean bowl, whisk cold milk, pudding mix, and caramel flavoring using a hand mixer on medium-low speed until just thickened (about 1 minute).
Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully incorporated.
Sprinkle ½ cup of chopped peanuts and 1 cup of chopped turtle candies evenly over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle with 1–2 tablespoons each of chocolate and caramel syrups (optional).
Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the candy layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer and garnish with the remaining chopped peanuts and turtle candies. Drizzle with additional chocolate and caramel syrups if desired.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
Turtle candies can be chopped in advance and stored in a sealed container.
Use an offset spatula for even layers and clean presentation.
Best served chilled — leftovers can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg