No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake: The Effortless Dessert Everyone Will Crave
Looking for an easy no-bake dessert that tastes like a dream and looks like you spent hours on it? Say hello to the No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake—a chilled, creamy classic layered with graham crackers, silky vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and a rich chocolate glaze.
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, planning a last-minute potluck dessert, or simply need something sweet to keep in the fridge, this crowd-pleasing treat never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
✅ No oven required — perfect for hot days
✅ Just a few pantry ingredients
✅ Quick to assemble
✅ Ideal for parties, holidays, or make-ahead treats
✅ Layers of creamy, chocolatey, nostalgic goodness
Ingredients
- 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 can (16 oz) chocolate frosting (or homemade chocolate ganache)
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Microwave (for softening frosting)
- Spatula or offset knife
- Plastic wrap or foil (for covering)
How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens (about 2 minutes). Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 2: Layer the Cake
Place a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half the pudding mixture on top.
Add another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining pudding.
Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
Step 3: Frost the Top
Microwave the chocolate frosting for 15–20 seconds to soften it.
Spread evenly over the top graham cracker layer using a spatula.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the layers set and the graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture.
Optional Variations
- Double chocolate: Use chocolate graham crackers for extra richness.
- Fruit boost: Add layers of sliced bananas or fresh strawberries.
- Flavor twist: Try French vanilla, cheesecake, or banana pudding mix.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice cold and top with whipped cream or caramel drizzle
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or crushed graham cracker crumbs
- Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 5 days
- Can be frozen and thawed for future gatherings
