Go Back
Caramel Apple Eclair Cake featured image showcasing a delicious dessert with layers of eclair pastry, caramel, and apple slices.

Easy Caramel Apple Eclair Cake

This no-bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, soft graham crackers, and sweet-tart apples, all drizzled with luscious caramel. It's an incredibly easy to make dessert, perfect for fall gatherings and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups milk
  • 4 cups peeled and diced apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup caramel sauce, store-bought or homemade
  • Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts, for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large Skillet
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Plastic wrap
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon to the skillet.
  3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth.
  5. Let the mixture stand for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
  7. Line the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them as needed to fit snugly.
  8. Spread half of the vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
  9. Top with half of the cooked apple mixture.
  10. Repeat layers: graham crackers, remaining vanilla pudding, remaining apple mixture.
  11. For the final layer, arrange graham crackers over the top. Break some to make them fit.
  12. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
  13. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts.
  14. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.

Notes

Store any leftover Caramel Apple Eclair Cake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. The graham crackers may soften further over time, but the cake will still taste delicious. If graham crackers are still crunchy after chilling, lightly brush with milk before layering. To prevent soggy apples, don’t overcook them. For flavor variations, add chocolate or peanut butter, spices like cloves or nutmeg, or use different fruits like pears or peaches.