If you’re craving a dessert that tastes fancy but is as easy as it gets, No Bake Eclair Cake is the answer. Imagine layers of graham crackers, a smooth and creamy filling, and a rich, chocolatey topping—all without ever turning on your oven. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for when you need something that’s both indulgent and super simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required: You don’t need an oven—just a fridge!
Layered Perfection: Think of it like an eclair, but in cake form. The layers of graham crackers and creamy filling are irresistible.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: You can prepare this the night before, letting it chill and set for a hassle-free treat.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready in no time.

Ingredients

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need (full ingredient list below):

Graham crackers
Vanilla pudding mix
Milk
Cool Whip (or whipped cream)
Chocolate frosting (or ganache)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Pudding Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk. Once it’s thickened, fold in the Cool Whip (or whipped cream) to make it light and fluffy.

Step 2: Layer the Graham Crackers

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay down a layer of graham crackers, covering the bottom of the dish. You might need to break some crackers to fit the space.

Step 3: Add the Pudding Mixture

Spread half of the creamy pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Place another layer of graham crackers over the pudding, then spread the rest of the pudding mixture on top.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate Topping

Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top layer of pudding. If you’re using store-bought frosting, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it up, making it easier to spread.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. The graham crackers will soften, and the layers will set into a beautiful, cake-like texture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Cut the cake into squares, serve, and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Let it Chill: The longer you let it chill, the better it gets. Aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Customize the Frosting: For an extra rich topping, make a simple chocolate ganache instead of using store-bought frosting.
Mix Up the Flavor: Swap out the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a double chocolate treat!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free whipped topping and pudding mix for a dairy-free version of this dessert.
Fruit Layers: Add a layer of fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, for a fruity twist.
Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate topping for an added layer of sweetness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dessert is perfect on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You could also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. This dessert is best served chilled and doesn’t need to be reheated.

FAQs

1. Can I use graham cracker crumbs instead of whole graham crackers?
Yes, you can! Just layer the crumbs evenly across the bottom, but whole crackers create a better texture.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s better if you do. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, to let the flavors meld together.

3. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, fresh whipped cream works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks before folding it into the pudding mixture.

4. How can I make this cake more chocolaty?
Use chocolate pudding mix instead of vanilla, or top with chocolate ganache instead of frosting for an even richer flavor.

Conclusion

No Bake Eclair Cake is everything you want in a dessert: simple, delicious, and super easy to make. It’s the kind of treat you can whip up the night before and have ready to impress the next day. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday, or just because, this cake is sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Enjoy every bite!

No Bake Eclair Cake – The Easiest and Most Delicious Dessert

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

The No-Bake Éclair Cake is a delightful and effortless dessert that mirrors the flavors of a traditional éclair. By layering graham crackers with a creamy vanilla pudding mixture and topping it with chocolate frosting, this cake requires no baking and is perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 box (14.4 ounces) graham crackers
2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant French vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 can (16 ounces) chocolate frosting

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
Assemble the Cake: Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers. Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
Add the Chocolate Frosting: Microwave the chocolate frosting for about 20 seconds to soften it, making it easier to spread. Evenly spread the softened frosting over the top layer of graham crackers.
Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.

Notes

Variations: For a different flavor profile, consider using chocolate graham crackers or adding a layer of sliced bananas between the pudding layers.
Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.