This easy no-bake dessert is a creamy, chocolatey delight that tastes just like an eclair, but without all the fuss of baking! Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a simple sweet treat.
Ingredients:
- For the “Eclair” Base:
- 1 1/2 boxes (about 48) graham crackers, whole
- 2 cups cold milk
- For the Vanilla Filling:
- 2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vanilla Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 3 cups of cold milk until smooth.
- Let it stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Lightly dip each graham cracker in the 2 cups of cold milk for just a second or two (do not soak them, or they will fall apart).
- Line the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish with a single layer of the milk-dipped graham crackers.
- Spread half of the vanilla filling evenly over the graham cracker layer.
- Create another layer of milk-dipped graham crackers on top of the filling.
- Spread the remaining vanilla filling over the graham cracker layer.
- Create a final layer of milk dipped graham crackers.
- Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the 1/2 cup of milk, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk. If it is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Frost the Cake:
- Pour the chocolate frosting over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- You can add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top of the frosting for extra decoration.
- For a different flavor of pudding, chocolate, or cheesecake instant pudding mixes can be substituted.
- For a thinner frosting, add a bit more milk.
- For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
Enjoy your delicious no-bake chocolate eclair cake!