A decadent no-bake Turtle Pie dessert featuring a graham cracker crust, creamy caramel filling, crunchy pecans, and a rich chocolate topping. This Turtle Pie is a perfect choice for special occasions or when you need a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both indulgent and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple yet luxurious this dessert feels. It combines a buttery graham cracker crust with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate for a layered treat that’s irresistible. Plus, because it’s a no-bake recipe, I don’t need to worry about turning on the oven, making it ideal for warm days or when I want a fuss-free dessert. It’s versatile enough for holidays, parties, or even a casual get-together.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling:
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup pecans, chopped
Topping:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Additional pecans for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Crust:
In a bowl, I combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture feels like wet sand.
I press it firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Then, I chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
Add the Caramel Layer:
I pour the caramel sauce into the chilled crust, spreading it evenly.
Next, I sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer and chill it for another 10-15 minutes.
Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, I combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream.
I microwave the mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth and glossy. After letting it cool slightly, I prepare to assemble the pie.
Assemble the Pie:
I pour the chocolate mixture over the caramel and pecan layer, spreading it evenly.
I drizzle additional caramel sauce over the chocolate and garnish with extra pecans.
Chill:
I refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Serve:
I slice and serve the pie chilled. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Variations
Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Salted Caramel: Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the caramel layer for a sweet-and-salty twist.
White Chocolate Version: Substitute white chocolate chips for the topping for a lighter, sweeter taste.
Mini Pies: Use a muffin tin to create individual turtle pies for easy serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store this pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It doesn’t require reheating since it’s best served chilled. For longer storage, I wrap the pie tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months. Before serving, I let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
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FAQs
How do I keep the crust from falling apart?
Pressing the crust mixture firmly into the dish is key. I also make sure to chill it before adding the filling.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the pie may taste sweeter. I recommend semi-sweet chocolate for balance.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. I find it’s even better when made the day before, as the flavors meld together perfectly.
What’s the best way to drizzle caramel sauce?
I warm the caramel slightly to make it easier to drizzle in thin lines or swirls over the pie.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, I can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo or shortbread crust for a different flavor.
Conclusion
This Turtle Pie is a decadent dessert that I love making for special occasions or as a treat for family and friends. It’s rich, creamy, and full of texture, from the buttery crust to the crunchy pecans and silky chocolate topping. With its simple preparation and no-bake method, it’s a recipe I turn to whenever I want a dessert that impresses with minimal effort. Give it a try—I think you’ll love it as much as I do!
📖 Recipe:
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Turtle Pie
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent no-bake Turtle Pie featuring a graham cracker crust, creamy caramel filling, crunchy pecans, and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for special occasions or as a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy and indulgent.
Ingredients
Crust
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup pecans, chopped
Topping
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Additional pecans for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish and chill for 15 minutes.
- Add the Caramel Layer:
- Spread caramel sauce evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the caramel layer and chill for another 10-15 minutes.
- Make the Chocolate Topping:
- Microwave chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour chocolate mixture over the caramel layer.
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and garnish with pecans.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
Substitute pecans with pretzels for a nut-free version.
Enhance flavor with a sprinkle of sea salt in the caramel layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 420 kcal
