Description
Craving a dessert that’s indulgent, simple, and requires zero baking skills? No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is the answer! With creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, crisp graham crackers, and rich chocolate frosting, this dessert comes together effortlessly and is guaranteed to impress. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home, this dessert has everything you need without any of the hassle.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 box graham crackers
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
- Assemble the Cake:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom. Break crackers as needed to cover the entire surface.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers using a spatula.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding mixture, followed by the remaining pudding. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
- Make the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and powdered sugar until no lumps remain.
- Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Finish and Chill the Cake:
- Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Optional: Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an extra touch.
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality cocoa powder and fresh whipped topping make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Chill for the Full Time: Allowing the cake to sit overnight gives the best results, letting the flavors fully develop.
- Customize the Layers: Add sliced bananas, strawberries, or crushed nuts for added flavor and texture between the layers.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this dessert suitable for everyone.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American