A Creamy, Crunchy, Chocolatey Treat
This No-Bake Eclair Cake is a simple, no-bake dessert that layers crisp graham crackers with a rich, creamy pudding mixture and finishes with a smooth chocolate frosting. With just a few ingredients and no oven required—it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for potlucks, summer parties, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
A dreamy blend of texture and flavor in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- ❄️ No Oven Needed: Just mix, layer, and chill—no baking skills required.
- 🥣 Creamy Filling: Whipped topping and pudding create a silky, custard-like texture.
- 🍪 Crunch & Soft Contrast: Graham crackers soften slightly while soaking up the pudding—but keep some crunch!
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Ideal for school events, family gatherings, or last-minute dessert needs.
- ⏱️ Make Ahead Magic: Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Ingredients (Makes 12–16 servings):
For the Pudding Mixture:
- 2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
- 3 cups cold milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 8 oz whipped topping , thawed (about 2 cups – Cool Whip works great)
For Layering:
- 1 package graham cracker squares (about 36 sheets – or use honey graham or chocolate wafers for variation)
For the Top:
- 1 container chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Creamy Pudding Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Pudding mix
- Milk
- Whipped topping
Stir well until fully blended and smooth.
Let sit for 5 minutes to begin thickening before layering.
Step 2: Layer the Graham Crackers & Pudding
Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch pan with a single layer of graham cracker squares .
Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers.
Add a second layer of graham crackers on top.
Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the top and spread evenly.
Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
Step 3: Frost & Chill
Smooth the chocolate frosting over the top layer of graham crackers.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours , but overnight is best for full softening and flavor development.
Step 4: Slice & Serve Cold
Once chilled, cut into squares and serve cold.
The layers will have set into a sliceable, eclair-inspired cake—with all the flavor and none of the effort!
Tips for Success:
- 🧊 Use Cold Ingredients: Helps the pudding set faster and keeps the filling firm.
- 🥣 Add Flavor Boosters: Stir a tsp of vanilla extract or almond extract into the pudding mixture for extra depth.
- 🍫 Homemade Frosting Option: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar + ¼ cup cocoa powder + 2 tbsp milk + 1 tsp vanilla.
- 🥛 Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan whipped topping and non-dairy milk for a plant-based version.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months—thaw in fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect at bake sales, church suppers, or backyard cookouts.
- Great with coffee, tea, or a tall glass of cold milk.
- Ideal for kids’ lunches, dessert trays, or midnight cravings.
Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 12 servings – approximate):
(Without add-ins – based on regular graham crackers and pudding)
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~14g
This No-Bake Eclair Cake proves that the simplest desserts can be the most satisfying. With its soft layers, custard-like creaminess, and rich chocolate finish—it’s everything you love about eclairs… without the pastry hassle.
So go ahead and make this today… because once you taste it—you’ll be making it again and again!
