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No-Bake Eclair Cake

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4+ hours (overnight recommended)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This No-Bake Eclair Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert made with layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, all topped with a rich chocolate frosting. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for parties, potlucks, or just because!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1 box graham crackers

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup (optional, for shine)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Filling:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
    • Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
  • Assemble the Layers:
    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
    • Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
    • Add another layer of graham crackers on top.
    • Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer of graham crackers.
    • Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
  • Make the Chocolate Topping:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth.
    • Stir in corn syrup (if using) and vanilla extract for extra shine and smoothness.
  • Top & Chill:
    • Pour the chocolate mixture over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a chocolate lover’s twist, use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
  • Swap graham crackers for Oreo cookies or vanilla wafers for a fun variation.
  • To make it extra fancy, drizzle with caramel or sprinkle crushed nuts on top before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~280
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg