Caramel Apple Eclair Cake
Quick Benefits
This no-bake dessert combines the comforting flavors of caramel apples and classic eclair cake—perfect for fall or any cozy gathering. It requires simple ingredients, minimal effort, and no oven, making it ideal for busy cooks who want to impress. The layers of cinnamon graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, spiced apples, and rich caramel make each bite a sweet, nostalgic experience.
Essential Ingredients
- Apple Pie Filling (30 oz) – enhanced with cinnamon and nutmeg for fall flavor
- Cinnamon Graham Crackers – add structure and warm spice
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (2 boxes) – creamy and light
- Cold Milk (2 cups) – for dissolving pudding
- Heavy Cream (2 cups) – whipped for richness
- Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup) – adds sweetness and helps stabilize
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – enhances flavor
- Caramel Sauce – store-bought or homemade for topping
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Filling: Chop apples in the pie filling and mix with cinnamon and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Make the Pudding Mix: Whisk together vanilla pudding, milk, and powdered sugar. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat until thick and fluffy.
- Layer the Dessert: In a 9×13-inch dish, place a layer of graham crackers, half the apple pie filling, and half the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers and finish with a final graham cracker layer.
- Top with Caramel: Warm caramel sauce and drizzle over the top evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to set.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, this dessert contains real fruit from the apple filling and calcium from the dairy. You can lighten it by using low-fat pudding mix, reduced-fat whipped topping, or less sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice and serve chilled with a drizzle of extra caramel.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
- Pair with spiced cider, chai tea, or coffee for a warm, cozy complement.
Creative Variations
- Pudding Flavor Twist: Try cheesecake or butterscotch pudding instead of vanilla.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between layers.
- Fruit Swap: Use cherry or blueberry pie filling for a spring or summer version.
Storage Tips
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the texture of pudding and graham crackers may become soggy.
Pro Tips
- Let the dessert sit overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Use an offset spatula to smooth the pudding layers neatly.
- If you prefer a firmer structure, reduce the cream by 1/2 cup or whip it to stiff peaks before folding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s actually better when made a day in advance so the layers can set fully.
Q: What if I can’t find cinnamon graham crackers?
A: Regular honey graham crackers work just fine—just add a dash of cinnamon to the pudding mix.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and gently folded in.
Q: Is it overly sweet?
A: It’s sweet but balanced by the tartness of the apples and the creamy pudding. You can reduce the powdered sugar if desired.
Caramel Apple Eclair Cake
Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is a no-bake, fall-inspired dessert that layers spiced apple pie filling, fluffy vanilla pudding whipped cream, and cinnamon graham crackers. Finished with a generous drizzle of warm caramel, this easy-to-make dessert tastes like apple pie and eclairs had a sweet, creamy baby! Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or when you need a comforting dessert without turning on the oven.
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chill time)
Ingredients
1 1⁄2 (20-ounce) cans apple pie filling (30 ounces in total)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 box cinnamon graham crackers
2 (3.4-ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
2 cups heavy cream
1⁄2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Homemade Caramel Sauce or store-bought caramel topping
Instructions
Begin by placing the apple pie filling in a bowl. Use scissors to cut the apple pieces into smaller chunks. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg into the filling and set it aside.
In a separate large bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and powdered sugar. Mix them well until everything is blended together.
Now, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. With a hand mixer, beat this mixture until it becomes creamy and thick, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lay down a single layer of cinnamon graham crackers.
Spoon half of the apple pie filling over the graham crackers, then pour in half of the vanilla pudding mixture.
Repeat the layers: add another layer of graham crackers, the remaining apple pie filling, and finish with the rest of the pudding.
Top it all with one final layer of graham crackers.
To get that delightful caramel drizzle, heat the caramel topping in the microwave until it’s warm and pourable.
Pour the warm caramel over the top layer of graham crackers, making sure to spread it out evenly.
Finally, refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 4 to 6 hours, or ideally overnight, allowing those beautiful flavors to meld together and set.
Before serving, drizzle on some additional caramel sauce if you’d like to go the extra mile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (plus 4–6 hours chilling)
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: ~320 calories per serving (may vary depending on ingredients used)