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Caramel Apple Eclair Cake

A no-bake dessert with layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, tender cinnamon apples, and a glossy caramel topping, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 6 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the apples
  • 4 medium apples Firm and sweet tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady or Gala work well.
  • 2 tablespoons butter To soften and gloss the apples.
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar For sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds cozy apple pie flavor.
  • 1 pinch salt Keeps apples bright and balanced.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice Helps to balance the flavors.
For the filling
  • 2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding mix Quick and foolproof.
  • 2 cups cold milk Use whole milk for extra richness.
  • 1 container whipped topping Or lightly sweetened whipped cream for creaminess.
For layering
  • Graham crackers The base that turns into soft eclair layers as it chills.
  • Caramel sauce Jarred works fine, or use your favorite homemade caramel.
  • Optional chopped pecans, toffee bits For added texture and flavor on top.

Method
 

Cook the apples
  1. Peel and chop the apples into small bites.
  2. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice.
  4. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are tender but not mushy. Let them cool.
Make the creamy filling
  1. In a big bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding with cold milk until it thickens.
  2. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Taste and add a spoonful of powdered sugar for sweetness if desired.
Layer it up
  1. Line a dish with graham crackers, breaking pieces to fill gaps.
  2. Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers.
  3. Spoon half the cooled apples over the pudding and drizzle with caramel sauce.
  4. Repeat with another layer of crackers, pudding, apples, and caramel.
  5. Finish with a final layer of crackers and whipped topping on top, then drizzle with extra caramel.
Chill and serve
  1. Cover and chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. For faster chilling, you can freeze for 45 minutes.
  3. Wipe the knife between slices for clean cuts when serving.

Notes

Use cold milk for pudding to thicken quickly. Let the apples cool before layering. Do not skip chilling time. Warm caramel for easy drizzling.