No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake Recipe

No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake

This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is one of those classic, no-fuss desserts that never fails. Creamy vanilla pudding folded with whipped topping is layered between graham crackers, then finished with a smooth chocolate frosting on top. After a chill in the fridge, the crackers soften into a cake-like texture that tastes just like a traditional chocolate eclair — without turning on the oven.

Flavor & Texture Highlights

Soft, cake-like layers of graham crackers, a light and creamy vanilla filling, and a rich chocolate topping come together for a perfectly balanced, nostalgic dessert.

Jump to Section

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• What You’ll Need
• How to Make It
• Helpful Tips
• Storage Instructions
• Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required — perfect for warm days
• Simple ingredients you can find anywhere
• Great make-ahead dessert for parties and holidays
• Even better the next day as the layers soften

What You’ll Need

Exact measurements are listed in the recipe section below.

• Instant vanilla pudding mix
• Milk
• Whipped topping
• Graham cracker squares
• Chocolate frosting

How to Make It

1. Whisk the pudding mix with milk, then fold in the whipped topping.
2. Layer graham crackers in the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
4. Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture.
5. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
6. Chill briefly, then spread softened chocolate frosting on top.
7. Refrigerate overnight for best texture.

Helpful Tips

• Let the cake chill overnight for the best, cake-like consistency.
• Microwaving the frosting briefly makes it much easier to spread.
• Break graham crackers as needed to fully cover each layer.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture changes.

No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake

Prep Time: 15 minutes  |  Chill Time: 8 hours  |  Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes  |  Servings: 12

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix pudding mix and milk until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.
2. Arrange a single layer of graham crackers in a 9×13-inch dish.
3. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
4. Add another layer of graham crackers, then spread remaining pudding mixture on top.
5. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
6. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
7. Microwave frosting for about 15 seconds, stir, and spread evenly on top.
8. Cover again and refrigerate overnight before slicing and serving.

Notes

• This dessert improves with time as the graham crackers soften.
• Serve chilled for clean slices and best flavor.