No-Bake Caramel Apple Éclair Cake
Experience the delight of layered vanilla pudding, spiced cinnamon apples, cinnamon grahams, and rich caramel in this no-bake caramel apple éclair cake. It’s an effortless dessert perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cans of apple pie filling (20 ounces total)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 box cinnamon graham crackers
- 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: homemade caramel sauce, caramel dip, or pre-made caramel topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apple Mixture: Empty the apple pie filling into a bowl and chop the apples into smaller pieces if desired. Stir in the ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Make the Pudding Mixture: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat with a hand mixer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Cover the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a single layer of cinnamon graham crackers.
- Spread half of the apple pie filling over the graham crackers.
- Pour half of the vanilla pudding mixture over the apple pie filling.
- Repeat the layers with more graham crackers, the remaining apple pie filling, and the remaining pudding mixture.
- Add the Caramel Topping: Warm the caramel topping in the microwave and pour it over the final layer of graham crackers, spreading it evenly.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store the caramel apple éclair cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to a month. Use an airtight container or wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Note: Full-fat dairy products freeze better than low-fat ones.
Enjoy this delectable no-bake treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family!