This Caramel Apple Éclair Cake (No-Bake) layers cinnamon graham crackers, apple pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and caramel sauce—an easy, make-ahead dessert that tastes like fall in every bite!
Okay, I have to be honest with you. I wasn’t planning to share this recipe.
Not because I’m selfish (well, maybe a little when it comes to desserts), but because every time I make this Caramel Apple Éclair Cake, it disappears way too fast. The last time I brought it to a gathering, I barely turned around before someone asked, “Wait, who made this?!” And by the time I grabbed a plate, it was gone. I’m talking not even a crumb left in the dish.
Lesson learned: Next time, make two.
This no-bake caramel apple éclair cake is like apple pie, caramel apples, and an éclair had a love child, except there’s no baking involved, and it somehow tastes even better the next day. It’s layered with cinnamon graham crackers (which magically turn into a cake-like texture overnight), apple pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and caramel drizzle. The hardest part? Waiting for it to chill before diving in.
And trust me—you’ll be glad you waited.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Eclair Cake Recipe?
- No oven required. Which means no stress.
- Tastes like an apple pie and an éclair had a baby. Soft, creamy, caramel-drizzled perfection.
- Make it ahead. Actually, you have to. The graham crackers need time to soften into a cake-like layer, which means less work for you when guests arrive.
- Zero baking skills needed. If you can layer crackers and pudding, you can make this.
- Guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I mean it. Make two.
Ingredient Notes:
You only need a handful of ingredients, and they all play an important role in making this cake magical.
- Apple Pie Filling – Sweet, soft apples packed with cinnamon flavor.
- Cinnamon Graham Crackers – They soak up all the flavors and turn into a soft, cake-like layer.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Makes the filling light, creamy, and smooth.
- Cold Milk – Helps the pudding set up just right—go for whole milk for the creamiest texture.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and makes the filling extra dreamy.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream just enough.
- Vanilla Extract – A little extra warmth to bring it all together.
- Caramel Sauce – The grand finale. Drizzle it on thick.
How To Make Caramel Apple Eclair Cake?
Step 1: Prep the Apple Filling
- Chop your apple pie filling into smaller pieces so it spreads evenly.
- Mix in 1 tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp nutmeg for extra fall flavor.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 boxes of vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, and ½ cup powdered sugar.
- Add 2 cups heavy cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract, then beat until thick and fluffy.
Step 3: Layer the Cake
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- In a 9×13-inch dish, place a layer of cinnamon graham crackers.
- Spread half of the apple filling evenly over the crackers.
- Add half of the pudding mixture on top.
- Repeat with another layer of graham crackers, the rest of the apple filling, and the remaining pudding mixture.
Step 4: The Caramel Finale
- Warm up your caramel sauce just enough to make it pourable.
- Drizzle generously over the top layer of pudding.
Step 5: Chill (and Wait, If You Can)
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. The longer it sits, the softer and better it gets!
Step 6: Serve & Watch It Disappear
- Slice into squares, drizzle with more caramel, and enjoy every bite.
Storage Options:
- Fridge: Store leftovers (if you have any) in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze it, but the texture will change slightly. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Make-Ahead: This cake actually gets better as it sits, so making it the night before is the best move.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to switch things up? Here’s how:
- Try different graham crackers. Honey or chocolate graham crackers work too!
- Experiment with pudding flavors. Butterscotch, cheesecake, or white chocolate would be amazing.
- Make it nutty. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers.
- Go caramel crazy. Mix caramel into the pudding for even more flavor.
- Shortcut version? Use Cool Whip instead of whipping your own heavy cream.
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Eclair Cake?
This cake is the moment, but if you want to go all out, try pairing it with:
- Hot Drinks: Coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider.
- A Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream takes it over the top.
- Extra Crunch: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or graham cracker crumbs.
- Whipped Cream: Because obviously.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Just cook 3-4 peeled and chopped apples with 2 tbsp butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon until soft.
Can I make this ahead of time?
YES. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge overnight.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of heavy cream?
Yep! Just swap the heavy cream + powdered sugar for one 8-oz tub of Cool Whip.
If you love caramel apples, apple pie, or easy no-bake desserts, this is your new best friend. Creamy, dreamy, and basically fall in dessert form. Try it out and let me know—did it disappear as fast as mine did?
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Caramel Apple Eclair Cake (No-Bake)
Ingredients
- 1½ 20-oz cans apple pie filling (30 oz in total)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 box cinnamon graham crackers
- 2 3.4-oz boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 c cold milk
- 2 c heavy cream
- ½ c powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Homemade Caramel Sauce caramel dip, or a store bought caramel topping
Instructions
- Start by cutting the apple pie filling into pieces and combining it with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- In a bowl whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, milk and powdered sugar until well blended.
- Next add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, to the mixture. Beat it until it thickens.
- Take a 9x13 inch dish. Layer it with cinnamon graham crackers.
- Spread half of the apple filling over the layer of crackers followed by half of the pudding mixture.
- Repeat these layers; another layer of crackers, apple filling and pudding.
- Gently warm up the caramel topping before pouring it over the layer of the cake.
- Place the cake in the refrigerator, for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to allow it to chill thoroughly.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!