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No-Bake Eclair Cake

Want an easy dessert that tastes like a chocolate eclair? This no-bake cake layers graham crackers with creamy pudding and chocolate frosting. Just 10 minutes to make, then let it chill.

Featured in Sweet Treats and Baked Goods.

Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 05 Jan 2025 01:29:39 GMT
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A slice of layered dessert featuring vanilla cream and chocolate frosting on top of graham cracker layers, served on a plate. Pin it
A slice of layered dessert featuring vanilla cream and chocolate frosting on top of graham cracker layers, served on a plate. | zestplate.com

Let me share my grandma's easy chocolate eclair cake recipe that's become our family favorite! This homemade chocolate eclair cake is pure magic - no fancy ingredients needed. Just layer some graham crackers with creamy pudding, top with chocolate, and you've got an easy chocolate eclair cake that'll make everyone think you're a baking pro!

What Makes This So Special

My homemade chocolate eclair cake recipes are always a hit because they're so simple yet taste amazing. This easy chocolate eclair cake comes together in minutes, then the fridge does all the work overnight. The crackers turn into these incredible cake-like layers that'll make you forget about store-bought desserts.

Shopping List

  • Graham Crackers: The base of our easy chocolate eclair cake.
  • Pudding Mix: Key to this homemade chocolate eclair cake recipe.
  • Milk: Makes our homemade chocolate eclair cake extra creamy.
  • Cool Whip: Gives that perfect texture.
  • Chocolate Frosting: The finishing touch for this easy chocolate eclair cake.

Kitchen Time

Mix The Filling
For our easy chocolate eclair cake, stir pudding and milk until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping - sneak a taste, it's the chef's privilege!
Layer By Layer
Building this homemade chocolate eclair cake is like playing with delicious blocks. Crackers first, then pudding. Keep going until you've used everything up.
The Sweet Finish
Here's my trick for the perfect homemade chocolate eclair cake recipe - warm that frosting for a few seconds. Spreads like a dream!
Patience Pays Off
The secret to the best easy chocolate eclair cake? Let it chill overnight. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

Grandma's Tips

Want your homemade chocolate eclair cake to turn out perfect? Always warm the frosting first - makes spreading easy as pie. When making this easy chocolate eclair cake recipe, make sure every cracker gets its pudding blanket. My grandma's rule for the best homemade chocolate eclair cake: overnight in the fridge, no cheating!

Keep It Fresh

Your easy chocolate eclair cake stays good in the fridge for about 4 days. This homemade chocolate eclair cake recipe is perfect for making ahead - up to two days before your party! Love this homemade chocolate eclair cake so much? Make extra and freeze some for later.

Crowd Favorite

Every time I make this easy chocolate eclair cake for gatherings, the plate comes home empty. My homemade chocolate eclair cake recipes have become famous at family parties. People can't believe this homemade chocolate eclair cake is so simple - they think it's from a fancy bakery!

A slice of layered dessert featuring a graham cracker base topped with whipped cream and chocolate frosting, served on a white plate. Pin it
A slice of layered dessert featuring a graham cracker base topped with whipped cream and chocolate frosting, served on a white plate. | zestplate.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should I let the cake chill?

At least 8 hours or overnight is best. The cake actually gets better after 24 hours as the crackers soften to the perfect texture.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead. The graham crackers will continue to soften, which makes the cake even better.

→ What's the best way to spread the frosting?

Warm the frosting in the microwave for about 20 seconds and stir. This makes it much easier to spread without breaking the crackers.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months if wrapped well.

→ Can I use homemade ingredients instead of store-bought?

Yes, you can use homemade pastry cream instead of pudding, fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping, and homemade chocolate frosting.

Chocolate Eclair Cake

Layers of graham crackers and creamy vanilla pudding topped with chocolate frosting. A no-bake dessert that tastes like an eclair but easier to make.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 20 Servings (20)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix.
02 3 1/2 cups milk.
03 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed.
04 1 box graham crackers.
05 1 can dark chocolate frosting.

Instructions

Step 01

Mix pudding mix and milk in a bowl until smooth.

Step 02

Fold whipped topping into the pudding mixture.

Step 03

Line a 9x13-inch pan with graham crackers, breaking some to fill gaps.

Step 04

Pour half the pudding mix over crackers and spread evenly.

Step 05

Add another layer of crackers.

Step 06

Pour remaining pudding mixture over crackers.

Step 07

Top with final layer of crackers.

Step 08

Warm frosting for 20 seconds in microwave and stir.

Step 09

Spread frosting over top layer of crackers.

Step 10

Chill at least 8 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

  1. Gets better after 24 hours.
  2. Can make up to 2 days ahead.
  3. Keeps in fridge for 4 days.
  4. Can freeze up to 2 months.
  5. Use homemade ingredients if preferred.
  6. Warm frosting for easier spreading.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13-inch pan.
  • Mixing bowl.
  • Whisk.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (milk, whipped topping).
  • Gluten (graham crackers).
  • Soy (possible in frosting).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 203
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 32 g
  • Protein: 3 g