This Caramel Apple Pie Lush is incredibly easy to make and requires no oven time. It’s light, creamy, and packed with comforting fall flavors, making it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you just want a quick sweet fix. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that looks beautiful in layers and tastes even better than it looks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham cracker crumbs
Melted butter
Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Apple pie filling
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Caramel sauce (jarred or homemade)
Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
Optional: ground cinnamon for extra spice
Directions
Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a crust. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the layers.
Prepare the cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Fold in a portion of the whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the chilled crust.
Add the apple layer: Spread apple pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. You can chop the apples slightly if you prefer smaller pieces.
Make the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Gently spread the pudding over the apple layer.
Top with whipped topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
Drizzle with caramel: Generously drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Add chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 4 hours Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use a cookie crust: Substitute graham crackers with crushed gingersnaps or vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Add spice: Stir ground cinnamon or apple pie spice into the pudding layer for extra warmth.
Swap pudding flavor: Use butterscotch or cheesecake pudding for a richer twist.
Make it nut-free: Skip the pecans or walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
Mini portions: Assemble in individual cups or jars for easy serving at parties.
Storage/Reheating
Store Caramel Apple Pie Lush in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, for up to 4 days. It is best served cold and does not require reheating. This dessert is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy layers may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making a day in advance. Just keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Do I need to bake the crust?
No baking is needed. The crust sets well after chilling.
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Absolutely! Homemade filling adds a fresh, spiced flavor to the dessert if you have the time.
What kind of caramel sauce should I use?
You can use store-bought caramel or homemade. Just make sure it’s pourable for easy drizzling.
Can I substitute whipped topping with real whipped cream?
Yes, but stabilize it with powdered sugar or gelatin to help it hold up in the layers.
What if I don’t have instant pudding?
You can use regular cook-and-serve pudding, but make sure it’s fully cooled before layering.
Can I use a different fruit filling?
Yes, peach, cherry, or blueberry pie fillings would all work beautifully with similar preparation.
How long should it chill before serving?
At least 4 hours, but overnight is best for fully set layers and optimal flavor.
Can I make this in a different dish size?
Yes, just adjust ingredient quantities for smaller pans like 8×8 or 9×9 inches, or assemble in cups for individual servings.
Is this dessert kid-friendly?
Definitely. It’s sweet, soft, and easy to eat — kids love it!
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Pie Lush is a dreamy, creamy dessert that captures the flavor of warm apple pie in a cool, refreshing layered treat. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, it’s a no-bake crowd-pleaser that belongs in your recipe rotation year-round. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear bite by bite.
Caramel Apple Pie Lush is a no-bake layered dessert that combines the cozy flavors of apple pie with creamy pudding, cream cheese, whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
16 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
1.5 cups cold milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce (jarred or homemade)
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
Spread apple pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Chop apples into smaller pieces if desired.
In another bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Spread over the apple layer.
Top with remaining whipped topping, spreading it into an even layer.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and ground cinnamon, if using.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set before serving.
Notes
Use crushed gingersnaps or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for a different crust flavor.Stir apple pie spice or cinnamon into the pudding layer for extra warmth.Stabilize homemade whipped cream if substituting for whipped topping.Best served cold; not suitable for freezing.Assemble in cups or jars for portable, party-ready portions.
