Caramel Turtle Icebox Pie for a No-Bake Dessert That Tastes Like a Candy Bar

If you’re craving a rich and indulgent dessert without turning on the oven, this Caramel Turtle Icebox Pie is your dream come true. Inspired by the flavors of the classic turtle candy, this no-bake pie layers a buttery chocolate crust with a velvety caramel cream filling, crunchy pecans, and a final drizzle of chocolate and caramel sauce.
It’s the perfect dessert for entertaining, holidays, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something decadent yet easy. Best of all, this pie needs only a few ingredients and a few hours of chill time in the fridge.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
For the Crust
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as chocolate graham crackers or Oreos, without filling)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours or overnight
- Total time: About 4 hours and 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter.
- Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Cream Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the caramel sauce and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the caramel mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Spoon the caramel cream filling into the prepared crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top of the filling.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Drizzle the top with melted chocolate and additional caramel sauce.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until set.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.
- Serve chilled, garnished with a few extra pecans or whipped cream if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a sweet finish.
- Serve alongside fresh berries to balance the richness.
- For an extra indulgent touch, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side.
Nutritional Highlights
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 10 slices) |
---|---|
Calories | 430 |
Protein | 4 grams |
Total Fat | 30 grams |
Saturated Fat | 17 grams |
Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
Fiber | 2 grams |
Sugars | 24 grams |
Sodium | 210 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Cream cheese and whipped cream provide a rich, smooth texture that satisfies sweet cravings.
- Pecans add heart-healthy fats, fiber, and a nutty crunch.
- Caramel offers depth and warmth to the flavor without requiring complex techniques.
- No baking required, making it ideal for warm weather or quick dessert prep.
Tips for Best Results
- For an ultra-smooth filling, let your cream cheese soften fully before mixing.
- Toast the pecans before topping for enhanced flavor and aroma.
- Use a piping bag for drizzling melted chocolate if you want a cleaner presentation.
- Chill overnight for best texture and clean slicing.
Variations to Try
- Use dulce de leche instead of caramel for a deeper flavor profile.
- Add chopped chocolate or toffee bits into the filling for extra texture.
- Substitute the cookie crust with a pretzel crust for a salty-sweet twist.
- Make it mini by pressing the crust into muffin tins for individual servings.
Caramel Turtle Icebox Pie is the perfect make-ahead dessert that combines the best parts of a candy bar — chocolate, caramel, and pecans — in every chilled bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or just want a treat that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.