No-Bake Caramel Apple Lasagna
This stunning layered dessert combines the beloved flavors of caramel and apple in a no-bake treat that's perfect for fall. With contrasting textures of crunchy graham crackers, silky cream cheese layers, and tender cinnamon-spiced apples, this impressive dessert requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Chill Time 4 hours hrs
Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 420 kcal
Graham Cracker Layer
- 2 sleeves graham crackers about 18 sheets
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping thawed
Apple Layer
- 5 apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Caramel Layer and Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
- additional whipped topping for garnish
- dash of cinnamon for sprinkling
Prepare the Graham Cracker Base
Place graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. Mix crumbs with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish, reserving the remaining third for topping. Place in refrigerator to set while preparing other layers.Create the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until well combined. Gently fold in whipped topping using a spatula with a light hand, maintaining as much air as possible for that cloud-like texture. Set aside.Prepare the Spiced Apple Layer
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sliced apples. Cook for 3-4 minutes until apples begin to soften but still retain some firmness. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring to coat evenly. When mixture begins to simmer, add cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.Assemble Your No-Bake Caramel Apple Lasagna
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker base. Drizzle with ⅓ cup of caramel sauce. Add cooled apple mixture, spreading to create an even layer. Top with remaining cream cheese mixture, spreading carefully to cover apples completely. Drizzle another ⅓ cup of caramel sauce over the top, then sprinkle with reserved graham cracker crumbs and optional nuts.Chill and Garnish
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal for flavors to fully develop. Before serving, add dollops of whipped topping, a final drizzle of remaining caramel sauce, and a light dusting of cinnamon.
Room temperature cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling.
The apple mixture must be completely cooled before layering to prevent melting the cream cheese layer.
This dessert actually tastes better on day 2 after the flavors have had time to meld together.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 4gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gSodium: 280mgFiber: 2gSugar: 36g
Keyword Apple Dessert, No-Bake Dessert, Caramel Apple, Layered Dessert, Fall Dessert