Description
This no-bake eclair cake is a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a glossy chocolate frosting. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for parties, potlucks, or any occasion when you want a nostalgic, slice-and-serve dessert without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 8 oz frozen whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 box honey graham crackers (about 3 sleeves, enough for 3 layers)
- 1 can (16 oz) chocolate frosting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thick and smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping with a spatula until the mixture is light and creamy.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, breaking crackers as needed to fit.
- Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers and smooth evenly.
- Add a second layer of graham crackers over the filling, offsetting the seams.
- Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer of crackers.
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers and gently press to settle the layers.
- Scoop the chocolate frosting into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 20-30 seconds until just pourable. Stir well.
- Pour the frosting over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly with an offset spatula or butter knife.
- Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
- Slice into squares and serve cold. For neat slices, wipe your knife between cuts.
Notes
For best results, chill the cake overnight to allow the graham crackers to fully soften. Use cold milk for the pudding to ensure it sets properly. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk before microwaving. Variations include using chocolate or banana pudding, adding fresh berries, or making it gluten-free or dairy-free with appropriate substitutions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 29
- Sodium: 390
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 48
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: no-bake, eclair cake, party dessert, easy dessert, potluck, icebox cake, chocolate, vanilla pudding, graham crackers