No-Bake Eclair Cake

Here’s a super easy and decadent dessert: the No-Bake Éclair Cake! It tastes like a creamy, custardy éclair but with no oven involved—just layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, finished with a rich chocolate glaze.

🍰 No-Bake Éclair Cake

🍽️ Serves: 12

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes

🕒 Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight is best)

🧁 Ingredients

Filling Layers:

• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups cold milk

• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

• 1 box graham crackers (about 14–16 full sheets)

Chocolate Glaze:

Choose one:

Option A: Easy Ganache-Style

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Option B: Classic Frosting Glaze

• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Mix the Filling
   In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
   Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.

2. Layer the Cake

   • In a 9×13-inch dish, place a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom (break to fit if needed).

   • Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers.

   • Add another layer of crackers, then the remaining pudding.

   • Top with a final layer of graham crackers.

3. Make the Glaze

   Option A (Ganache):
   Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips, let sit 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.

   Option B (Frosting-style):
   Whisk together cocoa, powdered sugar, and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and vanilla. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened (1–2 minutes).

4. Top and Chill

   • Pour glaze evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.

   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the layers soften and meld.

5. Serve
   Slice into squares and serve chilled. Optional: add chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for flair.

✅ Tips & Variations

• Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or banana pudding for a twist.

• Use cinnamon graham crackers for extra flavor.

• Add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries for freshness.

• Want it homemade? Use fresh pastry cream instead of instant pudding.