This No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a creamy, indulgent dessert that brings together the classic flavors of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and rich chocolate ganache without ever turning on the oven. Perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Its layered texture mimics a classic éclair with a fraction of the effort, and after chilling, it transforms into a smooth, velvety treat that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 box graham crackers
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers. Add another layer of graham crackers and spread the remaining pudding mixture on top, finishing with a final graham cracker layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot, then pour it over the chocolate chips and butter. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour the ganache over the top graham cracker layer, spreading evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.
Servings
12 servings
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 240mg
Sugar: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Notes
This cake tastes best when chilled overnight, as the crackers soften and absorb the pudding, creating a cake-like texture. You can swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or even cheesecake flavor for a twist.
Tips
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices. To lighten the recipe, you can use sugar-free pudding and low-fat whipped topping. Adding a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the pudding and graham crackers adds freshness and extra flavor.
Health Benefits
While this is primarily a dessert, it does offer some benefits in moderation. The milk and pudding provide calcium and protein, which support bone health. Dark chocolate in the ganache contributes antioxidants that may boost heart health. Preparing this at home also allows you to control the sweetness and portion sizes, making it a better alternative to heavily processed store-bought treats.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake is perfect for making a day in advance, as chilling enhances the flavor and texture.
Q: Can I freeze No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change after thawing.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
A: Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream adds a fresher flavor but should be stabilized with a little powdered sugar to maintain structure.
Q: How long can this cake stay fresh in the fridge?
A: Properly covered, it stays fresh for up to 4 days, though it’s best enjoyed within 48 hours for peak texture.
Q: Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
A: Yes, by using gluten-free graham crackers and checking labels on pudding mix and toppings, you can create a gluten-free version.