Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for a No-Bake Caramel Apple Éclair Cake!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (14.4 oz) box graham crackers
- 2-3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ tsp sea salt (optional, for salted caramel lovers)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
2. Layer the Cake:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom, breaking them as needed to fit.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- Arrange a layer of apple slices on top of the pudding mixture. Sprinkle with cinnamon if using.
- Drizzle about ¼ cup of caramel sauce over the apples.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the apples and repeat the process: remaining pudding mixture, apples, a drizzle of caramel, and a final layer of graham crackers.
3. Top with Caramel:
- Once the last layer of graham crackers is in place, pour the remaining caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cake, spreading it to cover the graham crackers completely. Sprinkle with sea salt if using.
4. Chill:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the flavors.
5. Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your creamy, caramel-filled delight!
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- Additional whipped cream
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
This cake is perfect for when you want a comforting, no-bake dessert with layers of creamy vanilla, tart apples, and rich caramel.
