This Caramel Apple Icebox Cake is the perfect no-bake fall dessert, blending cinnamon graham crackers, butterscotch pudding, and apple pie filling for a luscious caramel apple treat.
Icebox cakes are a breeze, requiring no baking at all. They’re all about those delectable layers of filling that truly define the cake. From peanut butter to s’mores, I’ve crafted a variety of icebox cakes, each one earning rave reviews at potlucks and parties, with hardly a crumb left behind.
What makes icebox cakes even more appealing is their convenience. You can prepare them in advance, sparing yourself the last-minute dessert rush. The simplicity they offer is as delightful as their taste, which is simply out of this world.
As the leaves change color and a crispness fills the air, it’s the perfect time to indulge in all things cozy and comforting. And what could be more fitting than a luscious caramel apple icebox cake?
This delightful creation layers creamy goodness with the sweet, tangy notes of apples, resulting in a dessert that will undoubtedly leave you reaching for seconds, and perhaps even thirds.
Grab your apron and let’s get ready to whip up this masterpiece that is sure to become a favorite during apple season.
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Why You’ll Love this Caramel Apple Icebox Cake Recipe
- Easy to make!
- No baking required!
- Versatile variations!
- Perfect make ahead dessert!
- Crowd pleasing guaranteed!
Caramel Apple Icebox Cake Ingredients
- Instant butterscotch pudding mix
- Cold milk
- Cool whip topping
- Apple pie filling
- Cinnamon graham crackers
- Caramel sauce
Recipe Variations
- Add walnuts in between layers for extra crunch.
- Mix some pumpkin pie spice into the whipped cream layer before assembling the cake for a warm and cozy twist.
- Sprinkle sea salt over top for a salted caramel apple flavor.
- Make mini versions by using mason jars or parfait glasses.
- Can use honey grahams crackers.
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for garnish if you like.
How to Make Caramel Apple Icebox Cake
Preparation
- Line a 9×13 baking dish with plastic wrap, ensuring there’s plenty of overhang to facilitate easy removal of the cake when it’s done.
Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine instant pudding mix and cold milk by whisking them together. Chop the apple pie filling into smaller pieces and fold into the pudding mix. Fold in one container of whipped topping.
Assemble the Layers
- Spread a thin, even layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Lay down a layer of graham crackers in the dish. If necessary, break a few to ensure complete coverage.
- Spoon a third of the pudding mixture onto the graham cracker layer and spread it out evenly.
- Follow with another layer of graham crackers, then add another third of the pudding mixture. Continue with another layer of graham crackers, and finish by adding the remaining pudding mixture.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped topping evenly on top of the cake.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish and place it in the freezer or refrigerator overnight. If freezing, let it thaw for about 1 hour before serving.
- Just before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce, and enjoy.
Recipe Tips
- Give it time to set in the fridge or freezer.
- Thaw cool whip in fridge overnight the day before making.
- Serve chilled.
How to Store Icebox Cake
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Absolutely! You can use either homemade or store bought. Both work great in this recipe.
Of course! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Some delicious additions could include chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, crushed cookies such as gingersnaps or cinnamon sugar cookies, drizzles of chocolate syrup, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for some extra flavor contrast.
Yes, you can! I think it holds up better in the freezer. Let sit out for a few minutes to soften up before consuming.
You sure can! Swap the graham crackers for gluten free graham crackers and any other ingredients for gluten free.
More No Bake Dessert Recipes
- Banana Split Cake
- Orange Creamsicle Cake
- Red White and Blue Lush
- Pumpkin Pie
- Strawberry Cheesecake
- Pumpkin Fluff
Recipe
Caramel Apple Icebox Cake
Ingredients
- 2 (3.4oz.) boxes instant butterscotch pudding
- 3 cups cold milk
- 2 (8oz.) containers whipped topping
- 1 ½ cups apple pie filling
- 1 (14.4oz.) box cinnamon graham crackers
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a 9×13 baking dish with plastic wrap, ensuring there's plenty of overhang to facilitate easy removal of the cake when it's done.
Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine instant pudding mix and cold milk by whisking them together. Chop the apple pie filling into smaller pieces and fold into the pudding mix. Fold in one container of whipped topping.
Assemble the Layers
- Spread a thin, even layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Lay down a layer of graham crackers in the dish. If necessary, break a few to ensure complete coverage.
- Spoon a third of the pudding mixture onto the graham cracker layer and spread it out evenly.
- Follow with another layer of graham crackers, then add another third of the pudding mixture. Continue with another layer of graham crackers, and finish by adding the remaining pudding mixture.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped topping evenly on top of the cake.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish and place it in the freezer or refrigerator overnight. If freezing, let it thaw for about 1 hour before serving.
- Just before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce, and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition Disclosure
Nutritional facts are estimates and are provided as a courtesy to the reader. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates. Nutritional values are calculated via a third party. Changing ingredients, amounts or cooking technique will alter the estimated nutritional calculations.
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