Caramel Apple Eclair Cake No Bake Recipe
- Cook Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two packages of instant vanilla pudding mix and the cold milk. Continue whisking for about two minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. Let it sit for a few minutes to firm up completely.
- Once the pudding is set, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula. Mix until the color is uniform and the texture is light and fluffy. This creates the “eclair” filling that makes the cake so airy.
- Empty the can of apple pie filling into a small bowl. Use a knife or kitchen shears to slightly chop the large apple slices into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This makes the cake much easier to slice and eat later. If you like extra spice, stir in the ground cinnamon here.
- Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers. You may need to break some crackers to fit them into the corners and ensure the bottom is fully covered.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers. Next, spoon the apple pie filling over the pudding layer and spread it out evenly. Place another layer of graham crackers on top of the apples, followed by the remaining half of the pudding mixture.
- Place a final layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding. Press down very gently to ensure everything is settled. This top layer will serve as the base for your caramel topping.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This resting time is crucial as it allows the graham crackers to absorb moisture and soften into a cake-like consistency.
- Just before serving, warm the caramel sauce slightly so it is pourable. Drizzle it generously over the top layer of graham crackers. You can use a spatula to smooth it into a solid glaze or leave it as decorative swirls.