Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is easy to assemble, requires no baking, and is full of flavor and texture. The layers of graham crackers soften as they chill, mimicking the texture of pastry in a traditional eclair. The cinnamon-spiced apples add a warm, comforting element, while the creamy filling and simple topping bring everything together. It’s crowd-pleasing, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for anyone who loves apples and custard-style desserts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham crackers
vanilla pudding mix (instant)
cold milk
whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
cream cheese (softened)
apples (peeled and chopped)
butter
brown sugar
ground cinnamon
vanilla extract
optional glaze: powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract
Directions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until apples are tender and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the pudding mixture and then the whipped topping.
- In a 9×13-inch dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers.
- Spread half of the cream mixture over the graham crackers.
- Add a layer of cooked apples over the cream layer.
- Repeat the layers: another layer of graham crackers, the remaining cream mixture, and the rest of the apples.
- Finish with one final layer of graham crackers.
- Optional: Mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk and vanilla extract to make a glaze. Drizzle over the top layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and soften.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 servings.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 6 hours or overnight
Total time: 6 hours 25 minutes (hands-on: 25 minutes)
Variations
- Apple pie twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for more apple pie spice flavor.
- Caramel apple: Drizzle caramel sauce between layers or on top for a richer finish.
- Nutty version: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the apple layers.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and confirm other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Light version: Use low-fat cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, and light whipped topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This dessert is not freezer-friendly, as freezing may alter the texture of the cream and crackers.
Serve chilled—no reheating required.
FAQs
Do I need to cook the apples?
Yes, cooking the apples softens them and enhances their flavor, making the texture more like apple pie filling.
Can I use canned apple pie filling?
Yes, for a shortcut, use about 2 cups of canned apple pie filling in place of homemade cooked apples.
Can I make this a day ahead?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s best made a day ahead to allow the layers to set and the graham crackers to soften.
What kind of apples work best?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji are ideal.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can replace store-bought whipped topping—just whip until stiff peaks form.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can omit it and just use pudding and whipped topping, but the texture will be lighter and less rich.
How do I prevent it from being too runny?
Make sure the pudding is fully set before layering, and let the dessert chill for several hours before serving.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced, especially with tart apples. You can reduce the sugar in the apple layer or use unsweetened whipped cream for less sweetness.
Can I make this in individual cups?
Yes, layer the components in small jars or cups for a fun, portable dessert option.
What toppings go well with this cake?
Chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, cinnamon sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream all work beautifully.
Conclusion
Apple Eclair Cake is an easy, elegant no-bake dessert that combines layers of creamy vanilla filling, cinnamon apples, and graham crackers for a flavor-packed treat. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect make-ahead recipe for fall, holidays, or any time you’re craving something sweet, cozy, and crowd-pleasing. Give it a try and watch it become a seasonal favorite!
PrintApple Eclair Cake
Apple Eclair Cake is a no-bake layered dessert featuring graham crackers, creamy vanilla filling, and warm cinnamon apples, all chilled until soft and sliceable. It’s easy, cozy, and perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham crackers (about 1–2 sleeves)
- 2 cups chopped apples (peeled)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Optional glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tbsp milk + 1/4 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook 8–10 minutes until soft. Stir in vanilla and let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Fold in pudding mixture, then whipped topping.
- In a 9×13-inch dish, layer graham crackers to cover the bottom.
- Spread half of the cream mixture over the graham crackers.
- Top with half of the cooked apple mixture.
- Repeat with another layer of graham crackers, the remaining cream mixture, and the rest of the apples.
- Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
- Optional: Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Best made a day ahead to let layers soften and set.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance.
- Canned apple pie filling can be substituted in a pinch (about 2 cups).
- Make individual servings in cups or jars for a fun presentation.
- Top with nuts, caramel, or cinnamon sugar for extra flair.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
