Description
This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a delicious layered dessert combining creamy vanilla pudding and fluffy whipped topping between crisp graham crackers, topped with a rich chocolate glaze. Perfect for an easy, impressive treat requiring no baking and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Layer
- 1 (14.1 oz) package graham crackers
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Chocolate Glaze
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the vanilla pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two packages of instant vanilla pudding mix and 3 cups of milk for about 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined to create a creamy pudding layer.
- Assemble first layers: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a single layer of graham crackers at the bottom. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers.
- Add layers: Repeat with another layer of graham crackers followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Top off with a final single layer of graham crackers.
- Make the chocolate glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, butter, and ¼ cup milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat, then whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
- Top with glaze and chill: Pour the prepared chocolate glaze over the top graham cracker layer, spreading it evenly over the surface. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best results, cover the cake tightly while refrigerating to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
- The dessert can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water for clean slices when serving.
- Substitute dairy-free products to make it lactose-free if needed.
- Allowing the cake to chill overnight improves texture and flavor melding.
