Creamy vanilla layers, soft cake-like crackers, and a glossy chocolate finish — all without turning on the oven.
Recipe Card
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours (overnight recommended)
- Total Time: ~6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
Dietary Badges
- High-Protein
- No-Bake
- Sugar-Free (with sugar-free ingredients)
- Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vanilla Cream Layer
- 2 packages sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz / 96 g each)
- 2 cups cold high-protein milk
(Fairlife 2% or skim recommended for taste and protein) - 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1 container (8 oz / 225 g) high-protein whipped topping, thawed
(or homemade whipped cream — see notes below)
Cake Layers
- 1 box high-protein graham crackers
(regular graham crackers may be used if needed)
Chocolate Topping (Glossy Finish)
Option 1:
- ¾ cup sugar-free chocolate frosting
Option 2: Homemade Protein Chocolate Ganache
- ½ cup sugar-free chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream or high-protein milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: 1 scoop unflavored or chocolate whey isolate
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until thickened.
- Whisk in the Greek yogurt until completely smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until light, fluffy, and fully combined.
- Line the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×13-inch dish with a single layer of graham crackers, breaking as needed.
- Spread half of the vanilla cream evenly over the crackers.
- Add a second layer of graham crackers, then spread the remaining vanilla cream evenly on top.
- Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
- Prepare the chocolate topping using one of the methods below and spread evenly over the top layer.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Additional Notes
- This recipe is naturally no-bake and high in protein.
- Chilling time is essential for the crackers to soften into a cake-like texture.
- Ingredient substitutions and protein-boosting tips are provided below.
Introduction
This high-protein no-bake chocolate éclair cake delivers everything people love about the classic dessert — creamy vanilla layers, soft “cake,” and a rich chocolate topping — with a modern, protein-forward upgrade. It’s designed for convenience, consistency, and that polished, bakery-style look, while keeping the process approachable and oven-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Making the Vanilla Cream
Whisking the pudding mix with cold milk activates the thickening agents. Adding Greek yogurt boosts protein and structure, preventing the filling from becoming loose once chilled.
Tip: The finished cream should be thick but airy. If it looks runny, refrigerate for 10 minutes before layering.
Building the Layers
Graham crackers act as the cake layers. As the dessert chills, they absorb moisture from the cream and soften into a tender, sliceable texture.
Tip: Break crackers carefully to fully cover the dish — gaps can cause uneven layers.
Creating the Chocolate Topping
The topping defines the final presentation. A gently warmed frosting offers speed, while the homemade ganache provides superior shine and flavor.
Tip: Allow ganache to cool slightly before adding protein powder to avoid clumping.
Chilling and Setting
Extended refrigeration allows the layers to meld and firm up. Overnight chilling delivers the cleanest slices and best texture.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
Key Ingredient Explanations
- Greek Yogurt: Adds protein and stabilizes the cream without heaviness.
- High-Protein Milk: Improves macro balance and pudding consistency.
- Instant Pudding Mix: Provides structure and classic vanilla flavor without baking.
Quality and Selection Tips
- Choose thick Greek yogurt, not drinkable-style yogurt.
- Use sugar-free pudding that sets firmly when chilled.
- High-protein graham crackers improve texture but are optional.
Substitutions
- Milk: Almond milk works, but texture will be softer.
- Whipped Topping: Homemade whipped cream may be used; stabilize with 1 tablespoon powdered erythritol.
- Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate with low sugar content may replace sugar-free chips.
Equipment Alternatives
- No mixer required; a whisk and spatula are sufficient.
- Any glass or ceramic baking dish works, provided it allows even layering.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
Flavor Variations
- Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder to the chocolate topping for depth.
- Stir 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste into the cream for bakery-style flavor.
- Use chocolate graham crackers for a richer profile.
Dietary Variations
- Lower Fat: Use skim milk and omit butter in ganache.
- Extra Protein: Add ½ scoop unflavored whey isolate to the vanilla cream.
Serving and Presentation
- Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.
- Garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.
- Serve directly from the refrigerator for best structure.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
Storage
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freezing is not recommended, as texture changes after thawing.
Reheating
- Not applicable; serve chilled only.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Ideal for preparing one day in advance.
- Texture improves after the first overnight chill.
Shelf-Life Notes
- Crackers continue softening after day two; best enjoyed within 48 hours for optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated Per Serving, 1 of 10)
- Calories: ~240 kcal
- Protein: ~14 g
- Fat: ~10 g
- Net Carbs: ~9 g
Dietary Highlights
- High-Protein
- No-Bake
- Sugar-Free (with appropriate products)
Allergens
Contains dairy, wheat (gluten), and soy (depending on whipped topping).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without Greek yogurt?
A: Greek yogurt is essential for structure and protein. Removing it will result in a softer, less stable filling.
Q: Why does my cake look loose after assembling?
A: It hasn’t chilled long enough. The structure sets fully after several hours in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream?
A: Yes, but it should be well-stabilized to prevent collapse.
Q: Does the chocolate topping stay glossy?
A: The ganache option provides the most consistent shine, especially when spread while warm.
Additional Notes and Recipe Background
This version was developed to solve two common issues with protein desserts: chalky texture and artificial aftertaste. By combining pudding mix, Greek yogurt, and whipped topping, the filling stays smooth and classic while delivering meaningful protein content. The result is a dessert that looks traditional, slices cleanly, and satisfies both texture and flavor expectations.
If you try this recipe, feel free to adjust protein levels or share your preferred topping method. Variations often lead to new favorites, and feedback helps refine future versions.
Reader Engagement
If you make this high-protein no-bake éclair cake, leave a rating and share how you customized it. Reader adaptations often inspire the next recipe.
