There's something magical about a No Bake Eclair Cake – it brings together all the flavors of a classic eclair in an easy, layered dessert. With creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and rich chocolate frosting, each bite feels like a melt-in-your-mouth treat. Even better, this dessert requires no oven time, making it a perfect choice for hot days or when you’re short on time.
This recipe is a longtime favorite at family gatherings and potlucks, where it always impresses without fail. It’s simple enough to make ahead but so delicious that it rarely has any leftovers!
Why You’ll Love This No Bake Eclair Cake

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate no-bake dessert! This No Bake Eclair Cake has all the appeal of a bakery treat but requires minimal effort.
- Quick and Easy: You’ll only need 15 minutes of prep time, making it a great choice for busy days.
- No Baking Required: Forget the oven – this cake firms up in the refrigerator, giving it a cool, creamy texture perfect for warm weather.
- Classic Flavors, Modern Twist: This dessert layers graham crackers with creamy vanilla pudding and chocolate frosting, capturing the essence of an eclair without all the fuss.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: As it sets in the fridge, the flavors meld beautifully, so it’s ideal to prepare a day in advance.
With each bite, you get the smooth, creamy filling and the slight crunch of softened graham crackers. Ready to start? Let’s dive into the ingredients!
Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient in this No Bake Eclair Cake is carefully chosen to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how each component plays a part.
- Graham Crackers: These form the “cake” layers, softening in the fridge to create a light, cake-like texture. Make sure to get plain graham crackers for the best flavor balance.
- Vanilla Pudding Mix: Instant vanilla pudding creates the creamy filling in just minutes. For the richest flavor, opt for full-fat pudding mix. You’ll need two packs (3.4 oz each) to get enough filling for the layers.
- Milk: Use whole milk for a rich, creamy consistency in the pudding. Skim milk can work, but the filling won’t be as thick or indulgent.
- Whipped Topping: Adding whipped topping (like Cool Whip) to the pudding makes it extra light and fluffy. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can whip heavy cream with a little sugar instead.
- Chocolate Frosting: This is where the “eclair” magic happens. A thick layer of chocolate frosting on top brings the entire dessert together. For ease, use a store-bought chocolate frosting, but feel free to make your own if you like!
Equipment Needed
All you need is a 9x13-inch baking dish and a mixing bowl. A whisk will help blend the pudding mix smoothly.
How To Make This No Bake Eclair Cake
Creating this No Bake Eclair Cake is as simple as layering and chilling. Let’s go through each step so you can enjoy this dessert in no time.
- Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix with milk, whisking until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Gently fold in the whipped topping until it’s fully incorporated and smooth.
- Layer the Graham Crackers and Pudding: Spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place a single layer of graham crackers over the pudding, breaking them as necessary to fit.
- Repeat the Layers: Spread half of the remaining pudding mixture over the graham crackers, followed by another layer of graham crackers. Add the final half of the pudding mixture, then top with a third and final layer of graham crackers.
- Add the Chocolate Frosting: Microwave the chocolate frosting for about 15-20 seconds to make it easier to spread. Carefully pour and spread it over the top layer of graham crackers, smoothing it to the edges.
- Chill the Cake: Cover the dish and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The longer it chills, the better the graham crackers soften and blend with the creamy layers.
This cake is best served cold, straight from the fridge, with each bite delivering that classic eclair flavor you love!
Storage Options
The No Bake Eclair Cake is incredibly easy to store, which is part of its charm! Here are some tips for keeping it fresh and delicious.
- Refrigerator: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors only get better, and the texture stays smooth and creamy.
- Freezer: If you’re making this cake ahead for a future event, you can freeze it! Wrap the dish in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to a month.
- Thawing Instructions: When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge for several hours or overnight for the best texture. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for too long, as it may soften excessively.
To reheat a piece (if it’s been frozen), a few minutes at room temperature will do the trick.
Variations and Substitutions
The No Bake Eclair Cake is delightfully versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are some ideas to change up the flavors while keeping that creamy, layered goodness.
- Chocolate Eclair Twist: For a richer chocolate experience, use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular ones and mix some cocoa powder into the pudding layer.
- Strawberry Eclair Cake: Add a layer of fresh sliced strawberries between the graham cracker and pudding layers, and swap the chocolate frosting for a strawberry glaze.
- Peanut Butter Eclair Cake: Stir a few tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the pudding mixture for a nutty twist, and drizzle melted peanut butter over the chocolate frosting before chilling.
- Mocha Eclair Cake: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the pudding for a coffee-flavored filling, giving the dessert a mocha spin.
- Sugar-Free Option: Opt for sugar-free pudding mix, low-fat whipped topping, and low-sugar graham crackers for a lighter version that still tastes indulgent.
Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun – feel free to make this dessert your own!
This No Bake Eclair Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with a crowd. Simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable, it’s bound to become a staple in your no-bake dessert rotation. Enjoy!
PrintNo Bake Eclair Cake Recipe
Indulge in this no-bake éclair cake recipe, a delicious and easy dessert with layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and rich chocolate topping. Perfect for gatherings, this dessert requires no baking and offers an authentic éclair flavor without the fuss!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz, thawed)
- 1 box graham crackers
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk (for chocolate ganache)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and 3 cups of cold milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth.
- In a 9x13-inch dish, place a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, then top with another layer of graham crackers. Spread the remaining pudding mixture on top and add a final layer of graham crackers.
- To make the ganache, microwave the chocolate chips and ¼ cup heavy cream with ½ cup milk, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the top layer of graham crackers, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Notes
- For best results, refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to blend.
- You can use chocolate or vanilla pudding based on preference.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
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