No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a simple and decadent dessert that layers creamy vanilla custard and fluffy whipped topping between graham crackers, topped with rich chocolate frosting. This nostalgic and easy-to-assemble treat requires no baking, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a delicious chocolate dessert with minimal effort.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Filling
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
For the Layers
- 2 packages graham crackers (or about 6–8 cups cracker sheets)
For the Topping
- 1 container (16 oz) chocolate frosting, softened
- Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Filling: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, forming a creamy custard base.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture, retaining its light and airy texture to soften the filling.
- Layer the Graham Crackers: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers in a rectangular pan to soak up moisture and create the cake’s soft texture.
- Spread the Pudding Mixture: Evenly spread half of the pudding and whipped topping mixture over the graham cracker layer, then add another layer of crackers and spread the remaining filling atop.
- Add the Chocolate Frosting: Warm the chocolate frosting slightly for easier spreading, then spread a thick, glossy layer evenly over the top of the assembled cake.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to soften. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use cold milk to help the pudding set faster and create a firmer custard.
- Choose thick chocolate frosting for the best glossy and rich topping.
- Store leftovers airtight in the fridge to prevent drying or odor absorption.
- Allow the cake to chill before slicing to ensure proper softening of graham crackers.
- Cut with a warm knife (run under hot water) for clean slices without frosting cracking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: no-bake, chocolate eclair cake, instant pudding, graham crackers, easy dessert, chocolate frosting, custard dessert