No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a delightful and simple dessert that layers graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and a rich chocolate topping. This crowd-pleasing treat is perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or any occasion when you want a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to make—but comes together effortlessly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with no baking required.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of pudding, whipped topping, and chocolate glaze is irresistibly smooth.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead: Tastes even better the next day as the layers meld together.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
- Graham crackers
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Milk
- Whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
- Unsalted butter
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth.
- Layer the Cake: In a 9×13-inch dish, spread a thin layer of pudding mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of graham crackers, followed by more pudding. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ending with a pudding layer.
- Make the Chocolate Topping: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the chocolate topping evenly over the top layer of pudding. Spread gently with a spatula to cover the surface.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and the graham crackers to soften.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–16 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4–6 hours
Variations
- Flavor Twist: Use chocolate or butterscotch pudding instead of vanilla.
- Fruit Layer: Add sliced bananas or strawberries between the layers for added freshness.
- Peanut Butter: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on the graham crackers before layering.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, homemade pudding works beautifully, but ensure it’s thick enough to hold the layers together.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal to make it a day ahead for the best flavor and texture.
3. What can I substitute for whipped topping?
Freshly whipped cream is a great substitute but may result in a slightly less firm texture.
4. Can I use pre-made chocolate frosting?
Yes, you can use pre-made frosting as a shortcut for the chocolate topping.
5. Why is my chocolate topping too runny?
Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to ensure it thickens enough to spread.
6. Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Crushed nuts, toffee bits, or chocolate chips make great additions.
7. How do I prevent the layers from sliding?
Ensure the pudding mixture is not too thin, and refrigerate between layers if needed.
8. Can I make this in individual servings?
Yes, layer the ingredients in mason jars or dessert cups for single-serve portions.
9. How long does it need to chill?
For the best results, chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.
10. Is this dessert suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well, making it a convenient option for advance preparation.
Conclusion
No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that delivers layers of creamy, chocolaty goodness. Perfect for any gathering or as a weeknight treat, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite flavors, this no-bake delight is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!
Print
No bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Desserts, No-Bake Cakes
- Method: No-bake, layering
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy no-bake dessert is a crowd-pleaser! Layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping are topped with a rich chocolate frosting. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or any time you want a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
For the cake layers:
- 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers (about 3 sleeves)
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 720 ml (3 cups) cold milk
- 240 ml (1 cup) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
For the chocolate topping:
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 120 g (4 oz) semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp corn syrup (optional, for shine)
Instructions
Prepare the filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
2. Layer the dessert:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom. Break crackers as needed to fit.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture.
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
3. Prepare the chocolate topping:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a bowl.
- Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter and corn syrup (if using) until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the cake:
- Pour the chocolate topping over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill and serve:
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- For a shortcut, you can use store-bought chocolate frosting instead of making the ganache topping.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist.
- This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for parties.