Eclair Cake

This delightful Eclair Cake has layers of creamy vanilla pudding, and graham crackers, and is topped with a rich chocolate ganache. Replicate the flavors of a classic eclair with this easy, no-bake dessert.

Today I’ve got a dessert for you that’s so light and fluffy, with a sweet and creamy filling that melts in your mouth. All that, encased in a layer of rich chocolate frosting.

That’s what you get with Eclair cake, a no-bake marvel that combines the classic flavors of an eclair in the form of an easy-to-make cake. I’ve always loved eclairs. I mean, what’s not to love? Those fluffy little cream-filled pastries are the stuff of dreams, haha!

I think it goes without saying that an entire cake of eclairs would be even better, right? This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests at special occasions or for treating the family to something extraordinary.

With its layers of golden graham crackers, smooth vanilla pudding, and a decadent chocolate glaze, Eclair Cake is a dessert that is love at first bite.

Eclair Cake is one of my favorite combinations of flavors and textures. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this no-bake cake is sure to become one of your favorite desserts.

With its creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker layers, and rich chocolate glaze, Eclair Cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication.

So let’s do this! Gather your ingredients, and let’s get to making the best Eclair Cake you’ve ever tasted.

Common Questions About Eclair Cake

Can I replace instant vanilla pudding with homemade vanilla pudding?

Yes! A homemade vanilla pudding can add a touch of authenticity and extra creaminess to your Eclair Cake, making it even more special. I always say, the more homemade, the better!

How long does Eclair Cake need to chill?

For the best results, let your Eclair Cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, but overnight is ideal to let all the flavors meld beautifully and the graham crackers to soften into the perfect cake-like texture.

How do I achieve a smooth, even chocolate glaze?

Gently heat the chocolate chips with heavy cream, corn syrup, and vanilla extract, then stir until smooth. This will give you a rich and glossy chocolate glaze that spreads evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.

Storage

This no-bake eclair cake is so easy and tasty! The hardest part is melting the chocolate and that’s really a snap. I love it when a simple recipe comes together!

Refrigerator

Keep your Eclair Cake refrigerated, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and creamy texture.

Freezer

Freezing is not advised to preserve the best quality and texture of the cake.

Tips

When the chocolate gets poured onto that final layer of graham crackers, you’ll know just how awesome this dessert is going to be. It looks amazing!

• Ensure the graham crackers form a single layer at the bottom of the pan for a stable base.
• For the pudding layer, whisk until smooth to avoid lumps for that creamy perfection.
• To make spreading easier, ensure the whipped topping is fully thawed.
• When making the chocolate glaze, medium heat in the microwave is sufficient to melt the ingredients without burning the chocolate.

Ingredients

The best desserts are the simplest ones, in my opinion. Be sure to save the printable recipe card below!

• Graham crackers
• Boxes of instant vanilla pudding
• Cups of milk
• Frozen whipped topping, thawed
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy cream
• Light corn syrup
• Vanilla extract

How to Make Eclair Cake

We’re just adding ingredients layer by layer in this recipe. I really love the texture and flavor that the instant pudding mix brings. It’s just plain tasty!

1. Cover the bottom of the 9×13 baking dish with graham crackers, breaking them to fit if necessary. 
2. Add the pudding mix to a large bowl, and pour in the milk.
3. Whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in the thawed whipped topping.
5. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the layer of crackers.
6. Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the filling. 
7. Spread the remaining pudding mixture on top of that second layer of crackers. 
8. Top with the last layer of graham crackers.

Chocolate Glaze

1. Add the chocolate chips, heavy cream, corn syrup, and vanilla extract to a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl.
2. Heat for 1 minute, stir.
3. Continue cooking for 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each round of heating, until chocolate chips are almost melted.
4. Remove and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the graham crackers, and spread evenly with an offset spatula. 
6. Cover and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, overnight is best.
7. Cut and serve with additional whipped cream and berries, if desired.
8. Store leftovers in the refrigerator. 

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Eclair Cake

That homemade chocolate frosting, or glaze, is really the ingredient that ties everything together. Take your time on it. It’s well worth the effort!

• A 9×13 baking dish for assembling the cake layers
• Large bowl for mixing the pudding
• Medium bowl for the chocolate glaze
• Whisk for a smooth pudding
• Offset spatula for an even spread of the chocolate glaze
• Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate glaze ingredients

What to Serve With Eclair Cake

Eclair Cake is really yummy with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an added touch of elegance, serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or with a side of fresh berries for a burst of freshness.

Why You Should Make Eclair Cake

Everyone needs a good no-bake dessert recipe, in my opinion. This one never lets me down! With only a little bit of effort, you’ll bring a showstopper to the table every time.

• It’s an easy dessert recipe that requires no baking, perfect for any level of baker.
• Eclair Cake is a crowd-pleaser, loved by both adults and children alike.
• The perfect dessert for special occasions or as a luxurious treat after a weekday meal.
• With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, it’s nearly foolproof.

Variations and Add-Ins for Eclair Cake

Let me know in the comments if you have any other great ideas for this cake. I’m sure there are all kinds of other things we could do here!

• Consider adding a layer of cream cheese to the pudding mixture for a richer filling.
• Swap out the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding to create a chocolate lover’s dream version of this cake.
• Introduce a layer of sliced strawberries between the graham crackers for a fruity twist.
• Experiment with different types of graham crackers, like chocolate or cinnamon, for a new flavor profile.

If you love this easy no-bake cake recipe, you’re going to love these other icebox cakes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great No-Bake Treats

Chocolate Mint Lush Dessert

Oreo Fluff Recipe

Best Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Lemon Lush Dessert

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