No-Bake Caramel Apple Éclair Cake: The Perfect Fall Dessert
As the temperatures drop and fall settles in, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a delicious, homemade dessert that embodies the flavors of the season. This No-Bake Caramel Apple Éclair Cake is exactly that! With layers of cinnamon fried apples, creamy vanilla pudding, and graham crackers topped with rich caramel sauce, it’s a dessert that captures the essence of fall without needing to turn on the oven. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply want to enjoy a special treat on a cool day, this cake is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Apples:
- 5 pounds Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1-2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (if needed to thicken)
For the Filling:
- 2 small boxes (3.4 ounces each) vanilla instant pudding
- 3 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
For the Layers:
- 21 whole cinnamon graham crackers
- 16 ounces caramel apple dip
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Plan ahead as the apples need time to cool before assembling the dessert. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the diced Granny Smith apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender. If the mixture becomes too juicy, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of flour and continue to cook until the apples thicken. Remove from heat and allow the apples to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk. Once combined, fold in the sour cream and Cool Whip until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan with 7 cinnamon graham crackers, ensuring they cover the surface.
- Spoon half of the cooled apple mixture over the graham crackers.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the apples.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding.
- Spread the remaining apples over the second layer of graham crackers.
- Spoon the remaining pudding mixture over the apples and smooth it out.
- Finish with one final layer of graham crackers on top.
Step 4: Add the Caramel
Microwave the caramel apple dip in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until softened but not completely melted. You want it to be easy to spread, but not too runny. Spread the softened caramel evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld. The next day, slice into servings and enjoy!
Notes
- The apples need time to cool, so make sure to plan ahead for this step.
- You can adjust the sweetness or add a pinch of salt to the caramel topping if you prefer a more balanced flavor.
- The recipe serves about 15 slices, but feel free to adjust portion sizes based on your gathering.
This No-Bake Caramel Apple Éclair Cake is the perfect marriage of fall flavors—sweet apples, creamy pudding, and decadent caramel all come together in one delightful bite. It’s an effortless dessert that will impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth on a cozy fall evening.