Here’s a delicious and easy No-Bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake that combines creamy layers with the perfect apple-caramel flavor. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a dessert or potluck!
Ingredients:
For the Cake Layers:
- 1 box (about 12 oz) graham crackers (you’ll need about 3 layers)
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Caramel Apple Topping:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced into small pieces)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning of the apples)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk, and beat until everything is well combined and the mixture starts to thicken (about 2 minutes).
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Assemble the Layers:
- Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a layer of graham crackers.
- Spread half of the cream filling mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- Repeat with another layer of graham crackers and the rest of the cream filling. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers on top.
3. Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping:
- In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, heat the caramel sauce for about 20-30 seconds until warm and pourable.
- Pour the warm caramel sauce over the apples and stir to coat the apples evenly.
4. Top the Cake:
- Spoon the caramel apple mixture evenly over the top layer of graham crackers. Spread it out so the apples are well distributed across the surface.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the layers set and the flavors meld.
- Slice and serve cold. You can add extra caramel sauce drizzle or whipped cream if desired!
Tips:
- You can switch up the apples for a different variety like Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Golden Delicious for a sweeter option.
- For a twist, try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel apple topping for a spiced flavor.
- If you want a bit more texture, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before serving.
This No-Bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings together the rich taste of caramel and the freshness of apples with a creamy texture. Perfect for fall or any time you need a quick, sweet treat!