This no-bake dessert combines the comforting flavors of caramel and apple with the ease of an eclair cake. Layers of graham crackers, creamy pudding, apple pie filling, and a decadent caramel topping create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 2 (3.4-ounce) boxes instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 2 2/3 cups cold milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 1/4 cups cold heavy cream or 1 (8-ounce) container of cool whip.
- 2 (21-ounce) cans apple pie filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Optional: lemon juice.
- For the Layers:
- 1 (14.4-ounce) box cinnamon graham crackers
- For the Topping:
- 1 (14-ounce) jar caramel topping or homemade caramel.
- Optional: chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts), and flaky salt.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until medium peaks form. If using cool whip, fold that into the pudding.
- Fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until well combined.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Optionally, if you want to enhance the apple pie filling, you can add lemon juice, and cinnamon to the canned apple pie filling.
- Optionally you can cook fresh apples with cinnamon and sugar.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them as needed to fit.
- Spread half of the apple filling evenly over the graham crackers.
- Top with half of the pudding mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat the layers: another layer of graham crackers, the remaining apple filling, and the remaining pudding mixture.
- Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
- Add the Caramel Topping:
- Pour the caramel topping evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Optional: sprinkle with chopped nuts and flaky salt.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Apple Variations: You can use different types of apple pie filling or even cook your own apples with cinnamon and sugar for a homemade touch.
- Pudding Flavors: Experiment with other pudding flavors, such as butterscotch or vanilla.
- Nutty Additions: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Graham Cracker Variations: Honey or chocolate graham crackers can also be used.
- Extra Caramel: Warm the caramel sauce slightly before pouring it over the top for easier spreading.
I hope this helps! Enjoy your delicious no-bake dessert.