Description
This decadent No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a layered dessert featuring creamy vanilla pudding, airy whipped topping, and crisp graham crackers topped with a rich chocolate frosting. Perfect for an easy, make-ahead treat that delivers classic eclair flavors without the fuss of baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
Base and Layers
- 1 box graham crackers
Chocolate Frosting
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is well combined and fluffy.
- Layer the graham crackers and pudding: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers evenly on the bottom. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers. Add another layer of graham crackers on top, then spread the remaining pudding mixture. Finally, finish with a last layer of graham crackers on top.
- Make the chocolate frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder and powdered sugar. Add the melted unsalted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
- Top and chill: Spread the prepared chocolate frosting evenly over the top layer of graham crackers. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the layers to set and for the graham crackers to soften to a cake-like texture.
- Serve: After chilling, slice the cake into 12 servings and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to use cold milk for the pudding to thicken properly.
- Allow sufficient chilling time for optimal texture; overnight refrigeration is recommended.
- Use a container of thawed whipped topping for lightness; you can substitute with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- This dessert is best served chilled and does not freeze well.