If you love classic éclairs but don’t want to fuss with baking, this no-bake éclair cake is the perfect solution. Layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and a rich chocolate topping come together to create a dessert that tastes just like an éclair—but without the extra work. It’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This cake requires just a handful of ingredients and no oven time, making it perfect for hot days or when you need a quick dessert. It gets even better as it chills, so it’s a great make-ahead option for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.

Ingredients

This easy dessert comes together with just a few pantry staples:

Graham crackers – The “pastry” layers that soften into a cake-like texture
Instant vanilla pudding – Creates the creamy, custard-like filling
Milk – Helps the pudding set just right
Whipped topping – Adds that light, fluffy texture
Chocolate frosting – The final layer that gives it that classic éclair taste

The full list of ingredients with exact amounts is down below.

How to Make No-Bake Éclair Cake

Prepare the Pudding Mixture

Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding and milk until thickened, then fold in the whipped topping for a smooth and creamy filling.

Layer the Graham Crackers and Pudding

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of graham crackers, breaking them as needed to fit. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers, then repeat with another layer of graham crackers and the remaining pudding. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers on top.

Add the Chocolate Frosting

Warm the chocolate frosting slightly to make it easier to spread, then gently cover the top layer of graham crackers with a smooth, even coat.

Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together. Slice and serve straight from the fridge!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Let it chill overnight. This gives the graham crackers time to soften, creating that perfect cake-like texture.
Warm the frosting. Microwave it for 10-15 seconds so it spreads easily without tearing the graham crackers.
Use homemade whipped cream. If you prefer, swap the whipped topping for freshly whipped cream for a more homemade touch.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Chocolate pudding version – Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate for a double chocolate treat.
Peanut butter twist – Add a thin layer of peanut butter between the graham crackers for extra richness.
Strawberry éclair cake – Add sliced strawberries between the pudding layers for a fruity twist.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can take it up a notch by:

Drizzling it with caramel or extra chocolate sauce
Serving with fresh berries on the side
Topping with crushed nuts or chocolate shavings for texture

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since this is a no-bake dessert, it’s best enjoyed cold. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture can become watery when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes! Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape in the layers.

How do I keep the frosting from mixing into the pudding?
Make sure the pudding layer is firm before adding the frosting, and warm the frosting slightly so it spreads easily.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

What’s the best way to slice it neatly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the cleanest slices.

Conclusion

No-bake éclair cake is one of those desserts that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. With its creamy layers and rich chocolate topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it out and let me know how much you love it!

Chilled Eclair Delight – No-Bake Cake of Creamy Layers

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Author: Lily Carter
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours (chill time)
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This No Bake Eclair Cake is an easy and delicious dessert that requires no oven time! With layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and a rich chocolate glaze, it’s a quick and irresistible treat that tastes just like a classic eclair. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion.

Instructions

Prepare the pudding mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens. Fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined.
Layer the cake:
Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a layer of graham crackers. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers. Add another layer of graham crackers, then spread the remaining pudding mixture on top. Finish with one more layer of graham crackers.
Make the chocolate glaze:
In a saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the glaze cool for 5-10 minutes.
Top with chocolate glaze:
Pour the chocolate glaze over the final layer of graham crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Chill the cake:
Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
Serve:
Slice and enjoy this creamy, decadent no-bake dessert!

Notes

Make ahead: This cake needs to be chilled for a few hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor.
For a thicker glaze: Add more powdered sugar to the chocolate glaze until it reaches your desired consistency.
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Optional toppings: Top with fresh whipped cream or berries for added flair.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg