No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake Recipe
This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a classic dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings, holiday meals, or any time you want a quick, no-fuss dessert. With layers of creamy vanilla pudding, soft graham crackers, and a luscious chocolate glaze, it’s like eating a chocolate eclair in cake form!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 package (16 oz) graham crackers (about 4-5 rows)
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Pudding Layer
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mixes and cold milk. Stir until the pudding thickens, which should take about 2 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and well combined. This will create a creamy, fluffy pudding mixture. Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Step 2: Layer the Cake
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay down a layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom of the dish. You may need to break some crackers into pieces to fill in gaps.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding.
- Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer of graham crackers, smoothing it out evenly.
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers to cover the pudding.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the glaze is well combined and smooth.
- Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the top of the graham crackers. Use a spatula to evenly spread the glaze over the entire top layer of graham crackers.
Step 4: Chill the Cake
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate the cake for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the pudding, giving the cake its signature texture.
Step 5: Serve
- After chilling, slice the cake into squares and serve. It’s best served cold, and the layers should be well-defined with the creamy filling and chocolate glaze.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake:
- Easy to Make: No oven required, just some simple assembly and chilling time. It’s a perfect dessert for busy days.
- Decadent Flavor: The creamy vanilla pudding, soft graham crackers, and rich chocolate glaze combine for a heavenly dessert that tastes just like an eclair.
- Make Ahead: This cake needs to chill in the fridge for a few hours, so it’s great for making ahead of time, especially when you’re hosting a party or holiday meal.
- Customizable: You can add some fun variations, like adding a layer of fresh berries or sprinkling chopped nuts on top of the glaze for some extra texture.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store the leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. It’s best when it’s kept chilled.
- Freezing: While the texture will change a little, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the fridge before serving.