Description

This No-Bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is a deliciously easy dessert that layers creamy vanilla pudding, crisp graham crackers, thinly sliced apples, and rich caramel sauce. With the subtle warmth of cinnamon and the option to add crunchy nuts, this sweet treat captures the flavors of fall without any baking required. Perfect for gatherings or a make-ahead dessert, it’s best served chilled after letting the layers meld overnight.

Ingredients

Scale

Base and Layers

3 packages (14.4 oz each) graham crackers
4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, thinly sliced)

Pudding Mixture

2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Toppings

1 cup caramel sauce
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts recommended) for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding begins to thicken, following the package instructions. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy filling.
Layer graham crackers: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure to cover the entire surface to form the base of the cake.
Spread pudding mixture: Spoon approximately one-third of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer, smoothing it out to cover all crackers gently.
Add apples and caramel: Evenly layer the thinly sliced apples over the pudding mixture. Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle with a dash of ground cinnamon to add warmth and spice.
Repeat layers: Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of graham crackers, followed by pudding mixture, apples, caramel, and cinnamon. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, aiming for roughly 3-4 layers total with graham crackers as the base and top layers.
Chill and set: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld. For best results, chill overnight before serving.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith or crisp Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast.
Make sure the whipped topping is completely thawed before folding into pudding for smooth texture.
For an extra crunch, garnish the top layer with chopped pecans or walnuts.
This dessert can be prepared a day ahead, making it a convenient make-ahead option.
If desired, drizzle additional caramel sauce before serving for extra sweetness.