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Turtle Cheesecake Dip

A velvety and indulgent dip combining cream cheese, caramel, toasted pecans, and chocolate, perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Festive
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Dip Base
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened The silky base that makes this feel like cheesecake.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar Sweetens smoothly without grittiness; substitute honey for a less refined sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt Adds tang and creamy, spoonable texture.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Aromatic and warming.
  • 1 cup finely chopped toasted pecans Toasty, buttery crunch.
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling Homemade or store-bought, whichever you love.
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted or chopped Bittersweet balance to the caramel.
  • pinch sea salt Brightens sweetness and brings all flavors together.
Dippers
  • Assorted dippers: graham crackers, apple slices, pretzel twists, shortbread cookies, or sturdy vanilla wafers. Choose sturdy dippers for best results.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the softened cream cheese until silky and free of lumps.
  2. Add powdered sugar, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla. Beat until glossy and just combined.
  3. Reserve a few pecan pieces for garnish, then fold the rest into the cream mixture.
  4. Spoon half the dip into a serving bowl, drizzle half the caramel, and scatter half the chopped chocolate. Add the rest of the dip, then swirl more caramel and chocolate on top for a marbled effect.
  5. Chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, or serve right away if guests are waiting.
  6. Finish with flaky sea salt and the reserved pecans for a beautiful touch.
Serving
  1. Arrange graham crackers, apple slices, and pretzels around the bowl and serve.

Notes

For a healthier option, replace half the cream cheese with full-fat Greek yogurt. Additional tips include adding a splash of bourbon for a festive twist or mixing in crushed toffee bits for extra crunch.