Description
A no-bake, simple and delicious Eclair Cake featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and graham crackers, topped with rich chocolate frosting. This dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, as it melds classic flavors into a luscious, chilled treat that improves with time.
Ingredients
For the Pudding Mixture
- 2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 8 ounce tub whipped topping, thawed (such as Cool Whip)
For the Layers
- 2 sleeves graham cracker squares (approximately 8 ounces)
For the Topping
- 16 ounce container chocolate frosting
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the 2 packages of instant vanilla pudding mix with 3 cups of milk. Whisk together until the pudding begins to thicken. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy pudding mixture.
- Layer the base: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham cracker squares to cover the entire bottom. Break crackers as needed to fit and fully cover the base evenly.
- Add first layer of pudding: Spread half of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the layer of graham crackers, ensuring full coverage.
- Second graham cracker layer: Place another layer of graham crackers over the pudding, covering it completely.
- Second pudding layer: Spread the remaining half of the pudding mixture over this second layer of graham crackers.
- Final cracker layer: Add a final layer of graham crackers on top, covering the pudding completely.
- Chill to set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour to allow the pudding to set and graham crackers to soften slightly.
- Prepare the frosting: Remove the lid and foil from the 16 ounce container of chocolate frosting and microwave it for about 15 seconds to soften. Stir well until the frosting is smooth and easily spreadable.
- Top with frosting: Remove the plastic wrap from the dish and evenly spread the softened chocolate frosting over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Final chill: Cover the dish again with plastic wrap and place it back in the refrigerator to chill overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to become perfectly soft.
- Serve: Once chilled thoroughly, slice the Eclair Cake into portions and serve chilled for a delightful dessert experience.
Notes
- You may need to break the graham crackers to fit the 9×13-inch dish completely; this is normal and helps ensure even layering.
- Using instant pudding mix allows for quick preparation without cooking.
- Allowing the cake to chill overnight improves texture and flavor, softening the graham crackers perfectly.
- If you prefer, you can substitute the chocolate frosting with homemade chocolate ganache for a richer topping.
- Keep the dessert refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American