No-Bake Eclair Cake

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There are desserts that comfort, and then there are desserts that feel like pure magic. My No-Bake Eclair Cake is one of those magical creations. With silky pudding, fluffy whipped topping, graham crackers that soften into cake-like layers, and a rich chocolate glaze, it tastes like a bakery eclair in cake form. Best of all? No oven required—just chill, slice, and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love It

  • No oven needed—perfect for warm days
  • Creamy, chocolatey layers that melt in your mouth
  • Only a handful of simple ingredients
  • Feeds a crowd effortlessly
  • Can be made ahead for parties and gatherings
  • Easy to customize with fun variations

Time Needed

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Servings: 12 squares

Ingredients

  • 2 packages graham crackers
  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 ½ cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade stabilized whipped cream)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Make the filling
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
  2. Layer the base
    In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a single layer of graham crackers. Spread half the pudding mixture evenly on top.
  3. Add more layers
    Place another layer of graham crackers over the filling. Spread the remaining pudding mixture on top, then finish with a final graham cracker layer.
  4. Make the chocolate topping
    In a small saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips and butter, stirring until silky. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until glossy.
  5. Finish and chill
    Pour the chocolate glaze over the top cracker layer, spreading evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let the crackers soften into cake-like layers.
  6. Serve
    Slice into squares, plate, and enjoy chilled.

Variations to Try

  • Fruity Layers – Add sliced strawberries, raspberries, or bananas between pudding layers.
  • Flavored Pudding – Try chocolate, butterscotch, or even pistachio pudding for a twist.
  • Caramel Drizzle – Drizzle salted caramel over the chocolate glaze before chilling.
  • Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts over the top.

Tips from Chef Emma

  • Always use cold milk so the pudding sets properly.
  • Chill overnight for the best texture and clean slices.
  • For neat serving, dip your knife in warm water and wipe between cuts.
  • Homemade whipped cream works too—just be sure it’s stabilized.

Nutrition Info per Serving

  • Calories: 280
  • Carbs: 36g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this a day ahead?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when chilled overnight.

Q: Can I freeze No-Bake Eclair Cake?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Just stabilize it with a little gelatin so it holds up in the layers.

Q: How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

This No-Bake Eclair Cake is pure dessert magic—simple to make, indulgent to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, serving it for a birthday, or just treating your family to something special, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Creamy, chocolatey, and perfectly chilled—this is the kind of dessert you’ll come back to again and again.

Print
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No-Bake Eclair Cake

  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 squares 1x
Print Recipe

Description

Layers of silky vanilla pudding, whipped topping, graham crackers, and rich chocolate ganache come together in this magical No-Bake Eclair Cake. A sliceable version of the classic pastry—no oven needed!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 packages graham crackers
  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 ½ cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
  2. Layer graham crackers in a 9×13 pan. Spread half the pudding mixture on top.
  3. Add another graham cracker layer, then the remaining pudding, finishing with a final cracker layer.
  4. Melt chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan. Remove from heat, whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla.
  5. Spread chocolate topping over the final graham layer. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, chill overnight. Use stabilized whipped cream if making homemade. Dip your knife in warm water for clean slices. Try fun variations with fruit or flavored pudding.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: no-bake eclair cake, pudding dessert, chocolate ganache, graham cracker dessert, summer treat

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