No-Bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake: A Vegan Delight

If you’re craving a delicious, no-bake dessert that’s both creamy and indulgent, this Vegan No-Bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is the perfect choice. With layers of dairy-free eclair filling, fresh apples, and a luscious caramel topping, it offers a vegan twist on a classic favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any baking—ideal for those warm days when you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven.

Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Vegan Eclair Filling:

  • 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight (this will separate into cream and liquid)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a hint of tang)

For the Apple Layer:

  • 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (for freshness and texture)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (to sweeten and add flavor)

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat, for creaminess)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (for rich, caramel flavor)
  • 1/4 cup vegan butter (for richness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)

For Assembly:

  • 1 package (14 oz) vegan graham crackers or vegan vanilla wafer cookies (for layering)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegan Eclair Filling:

  1. Open the can of refrigerated coconut milk and scoop out the solidified coconut cream into a mixing bowl.
  2. Add the powdered sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the bowl.
  3. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until smooth and creamy. This will be your eclair filling.

Prepare the Apple Layer:

  1. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice and maple syrup. This will add a touch of sweetness and keep the apples from browning.

Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the coconut milk, brown sugar, and vegan butter.
  2. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil.
  3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to a caramel sauce consistency.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before using.

Assemble the Eclair Cake:

  1. Line the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with a layer of vegan graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
  2. Spread half of the vegan eclair filling evenly over the crackers.
  3. Layer half of the sliced apples on top of the eclair filling.
  4. Add another layer of vegan graham crackers or vanilla wafers over the apples.
  5. Spread the remaining eclair filling evenly over the second layer of crackers.
  6. Top with the remaining sliced apples.

Finish with Caramel Sauce:

  1. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top layer of apples.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Cut into squares and serve chilled. This dessert is perfect for a refreshing and sweet treat!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 32g
  • Protein: 2g

Variations and Substitutions

  • Fruit Variations: Try using pears, berries, or peaches in place of apples for a different twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies to accommodate gluten-free diets.
  • Nut-Free: Ensure the caramel sauce and graham crackers are free from nuts if you have allergies.

Conclusion

This Vegan No-Bake Caramel Apple Eclair Cake is a delicious and satisfying treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its layers of creamy eclair filling, fresh apples, and decadent caramel sauce, it provides a delightful vegan dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy the perfect combination of flavors and textures with this delightful no-bake recipe!