A rich, creamy, no-fuss dessert that tastes just like a classic chocolate éclair—but in easy, sliceable cake form! Layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and chocolate frosting come together in this dreamy, chilled treat. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or lazy weekends.
🕒 Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: ~4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 12
🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- WW SmartPoints: ~8–10 (varies by pudding/frosting brand)
📝 Ingredients List:
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 box graham cracker squares
- 1 (16 oz) tub prepared chocolate frosting (or homemade if preferred)
👩🍳 Instructions:
-
Make the Pudding Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and combined. -
Layer the Cake:
In a 9×13-inch dish, place a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom, breaking them as needed to fit.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
Add another layer of graham crackers.
Spread the remaining pudding mixture on top.
Finish with one final layer of graham crackers. -
Frost the Top:
Microwave the chocolate frosting (uncovered) for 10–15 seconds to soften slightly. Stir, then gently spread it over the top layer of graham crackers. -
Chill:
Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and become cake-like. -
Serve:
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Store leftovers covered in the fridge.
💡 Additional Notes:
- The longer it chills, the better it tastes—overnight is best!
- Use sugar-free pudding or light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.
🥗 Dietary Info:
- No-Bake
- Vegetarian
- Egg-Free
- Can be made Lower Sugar / WW Friendly with substitutions
- Kid-Friendly and Potluck-Perfect
🧡 Brief Introduction:
This no-bake éclair cake has been a beloved family dessert for decades—and for good reason. It’s creamy, chocolatey, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to put together. It tastes just like a bakery éclair, but no oven required!
🌿 Flavor Tips & Variations:
- Flavor Swap: Try chocolate or cheesecake-flavored pudding instead of vanilla.
- Fruit Twist: Add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the pudding layers.
- Frosting Alternative: Use homemade chocolate ganache for a richer topping.
- Topping Fun: Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed graham crackers.
🔄 Ingredient Substitutions:
- Graham Crackers: Sub with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
- Whipped Topping: Use homemade whipped cream if you prefer.
- Frosting: Swap with ganache or chocolate pudding for a different texture.
🍽️ Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions:
- Mini Version: Make individual servings in jars or ramekins.
- Make it Mocha: Add a touch of espresso powder to the pudding.
- Pair With: Fresh berries, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
🧊 Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
- Fridge: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen and thawed overnight in the fridge for a firmer texture.
- Make-Ahead: Best when made at least 4 hours in advance—overnight is ideal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use cook-and-serve pudding?
A: No—this recipe is specifically for instant pudding to keep it no-bake.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free pudding, whipped topping, and plant-based milk and frosting.
Q: Can I use homemade frosting?
A: Absolutely! A rich chocolate ganache or buttercream works beautifully.
📝 Optional Personal Note or Story:
I remember the first time I had this cake at a family gathering—it blew my mind that something so decadent didn’t even need baking. Now I make it for birthdays and holidays, and it always disappears in minutes. It’s a classic that never goes out of style.
