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No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake – The Best 5-Minute Dessert Ever


  • Author: Joriel
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (includes chill time)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and rich chocolate frosting… need we say more? This classic no-bake dessert is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s soft, chilled, chocolatey heaven that gets better as it sits. Make it ahead, refrigerate, and dig in to one of the easiest and most indulgent desserts you’ll ever make!


Ingredients

• 2 (3.5 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped
topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 3 cups cold milk
• 2 sleeves graham cracker squares
• 1 (16 oz) container chocolate frosting


Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.

2️⃣ Layer the Dessert:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture.
Finish with a third layer of graham crackers on top.

3️⃣ Chill:
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the pudding set.

4️⃣ Top with Frosting:
Microwave the chocolate frosting tub (with lid removed) for 15–20 seconds to soften. Stir and pour over the top graham layer. Spread evenly.

5️⃣ Final Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to let the layers soften and meld together perfectly.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert actually tastes better the next day. Chill overnight to allow the graham crackers to fully soften and meld with the filling.

  • Easy Variations: Swap vanilla pudding for banana or chocolate for a fun twist. Add sliced strawberries or bananas between layers for extra flavor and freshness.

  • Gluten-Free Tip: Use certified gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check pudding and whipped topping labels, too.

  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond or oat milk for dairy milk and use dairy-free whipped topping. Be sure to choose dairy-free frosting as well.

  • Freezing Instructions: To freeze, cut the fully chilled cake into slices, wrap each in plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

  • Serving Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe between cuts. This helps maintain those beautiful, defined layers.

  • Storage: Keep refrigerated and covered for up to 4 days. Do not leave out at room temperature for more than 2 hours per FDA food safety guidelines.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of 9x13-inch pan)
  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Sugar: ~26g
  • Sodium: ~280mg
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Saturated Fat: ~7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~6g
  • Trans Fat: ~0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: ~42g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Cholesterol: ~15mg

Keywords: No-Bake Desserts · Chocolate Recipes · Pudding Cakes · Party Food Ideas · Summer Treats · Family-Friendly Desserts · Easy Recipes · Classic Potluck Dishes · Whipped Topping Desserts · Crowd-Pleasing Sweets