Description
This No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake is a deliciously easy dessert that mimics the taste and texture of a classic chocolate éclair but without the need for baking. Layered with creamy vanilla pudding, soft graham crackers, and a rich chocolate topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is sure to be a hit at family gatherings, parties, or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 box graham crackers
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Vanilla Pudding Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix and 3 cups of cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. Once thickened, fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined. - Layer the Graham Crackers:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom. Break the crackers as needed to fit the dish. - Add the Pudding Layer:
Spread half of the vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers. - Repeat the Layers:
Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding. Then, spread the remaining vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the crackers. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers on top. - Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is combined. - Spread the Chocolate Topping:
Pour the chocolate topping over the final layer of graham crackers, using a spatula to spread it evenly. - Chill the Cake:
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This will allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld together. - Serve:
Once chilled, slice and serve the cake. Enjoy the creamy, layered goodness!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: This cake is best made the day before serving to give the graham crackers enough time to soften.
- Use Full-Fat Ingredients: For the richest flavor, use full-fat whipped topping and whole milk.
- Thicker Layers: For thicker pudding layers, use a bit less milk than the recipe calls for.
- Fruit Topping: For an extra touch, you can garnish the cake with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the recipe)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg