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No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake: The Easiest Dessert Ever!


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  • Author: Evelyn Marcella Rivera
  • Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 15 slices 1x

Description

Layers of graham crackers, a fluffy vanilla pudding–Cool Whip filling, and a rich chocolate frosting top. No oven needed and always a crowd‑pleaser!


Ingredients

Units Scale

Creamy Pudding Filling

  • 3 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 package (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip (whipped topping) (thawed)

Layers & Topping

  • 1 box (3 sleeves) graham crackers (whole rectangles)
  • 1 tub (16 oz) chocolate frosting (room temperature for easy spreading)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Create the Creamy Pudding Filling
    In a large bowl, whisk the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix vigorously for about 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until just combined to keep the mixture light and airy.
  2. Step 2: Assemble the First Layer
    Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish, breaking pieces as needed to cover fully.
  3. Step 3: Spread the Pudding Magic
    Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers and spread into an even layer, reaching all corners.
  4. Step 4: Build the Second Layer
    Place another full layer of graham crackers over the pudding to create a defined middle layer.
  5. Step 5: Add the Final Pudding and Cracker Layers
    Spread the remaining pudding evenly, then top with a final layer of graham crackers (you now have 3 cracker layers and 2 pudding layers).
  6. Step 6: Quick Freeze for a Perfect Frosting Base
    Cover and place in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up the top layer for easier frosting.
  7. Step 7: Frost with Chocolatey Goodness
    Spread the room-temperature chocolate frosting evenly over the top cracker layer. If too stiff, microwave the frosting in 10-second bursts until spreadable.
  8. Step 8: Chill to Perfection
    Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) until the crackers soften to a cake-like texture.

Notes

For a glossy finish, you can substitute the frosting with a quick ganache (1 cup chocolate chips + 1/2 cup warm heavy cream). Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 38
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 16
  • Saturated Fat: 9
  • Carbohydrates: 55
  • Protein: 4