Caramel Apple Eclair Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel, the tartness of apples, and the creamy texture of pudding layered between crisp graham crackers. It’s a simple and delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers – enough to create 3 layers in your pan
- 2-3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 packages (about 6 ounces each) vanilla pudding mix
- Caramel sauce, about 1 cup
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the vanilla pudding according to the package instructions and let it set.
- Step 2: In a rectangular pan, arrange a layer of graham crackers as the base.
- Step 3: Spread half of the prepared pudding evenly over the graham crackers.
- Step 4: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples on top of the pudding.
- Step 5: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple layer.
- Step 6: Repeat the layers: graham crackers, remaining pudding, apples, and caramel sauce.
- Step 7: Finish with a final layer of graham crackers, then drizzle any remaining caramel sauce on top.
- Step 8: Cover the cake and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften.
- Step 9: Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon on the apple slices before layering.
- Substitute vanilla pudding with caramel-flavored pudding for a richer taste.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Top with chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes best chilled and should be eaten within this time for optimal texture. Reheat is not recommended as the layers are best enjoyed cold and soft.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake actually benefits from making it ahead. Chilling it overnight helps the flavors meld and softens the graham crackers, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can substitute with digestive biscuits or tea biscuits that will similarly soften and absorb the pudding, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
PrintCaramel Apple Eclair Cake Recipe
This Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring layers of crisp graham crackers, tender spiced apples, creamy pudding, and luscious caramel sauce. Perfectly chilled before serving, it combines the flavors of a classic apple dessert with the ease of an effortless layered cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Base
- 1 package graham crackers (about 9 ounces)
Apple Layer
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pudding Layer
- 2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: In a bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld and prevent browning.
- Make Pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract. Beat for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens and sets slightly.
- Layer the Cake: In a 9×13 inch dish, lay a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom completely. Follow with a layer of the prepared apple slices evenly spread over the crackers. Then, pour and spread half of the pudding over the apple layer. Repeat with another graham cracker layer, the remaining apples, and pudding.
- Add Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top pudding layer, smoothing with a spatula if needed.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream or chopped nuts for extra texture.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tang.
- For a richer pudding layer, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Homemade caramel sauce can be used for a more robust flavor.
- Letting the cake chill overnight improves texture and flavor melding.
- This dessert is best served cold and consumed within 3 days for freshness.
Keywords: Caramel Apple Eclair Cake, no-bake dessert, layered cake, autumn dessert, apple pudding cake, caramel dessert
