Easy Chocolate Eclair Cake | No-Bake Layered Dessert
This Chocolate Eclair Cake is a no-bake dessert that’s easy to make. It’s similar to other icebox cakes on the blog and perfect for any time of year, especially in summer.
You just need layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and chocolate ganache. Make it the day before your event to let it set perfectly overnight.
This recipe turns simple ingredients into an irresistible dessert. Be sure to give this easy recipe a save for the next time you’re in need of a delicious no-bake cake.
No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
I’ve always had a super sweet tooth craving for layered desserts, as you can probably tell from the extensive collection of recipes on the blog.
There’s something I just cannot resist about the combo of creamy pudding, crunchy graham crackers, and light whipped cream—it’s my favorite kind of dessert. This Chocolate Eclair Cake has all of that, making it a 10/10 in my opinion.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
Just simple ingredients
Chocolate Eclair Cake Directions
Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pudding mix and milk. Whisk for 2 minutes or until smooth.
- Add the whipped topping and mix until well combined.
Layer the Cake:
- In a 9×13 inch baking pan, lay a single layer of graham crackers at the bottom.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
- Place another layer of graham crackers over the top, then cover with the remaining pudding mixture.
- Put the pan in the refrigerator while you make the ganache.
Make the Ganache:
- Pour heavy whipping cream into a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat and stir constantly until it just begins to boil.
- Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Cover all the chips with the hot cream.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until the ganache is smooth.
- Allow the ganache to cool for an additional 10 minutes.
Add Ganache and Chill:
- Pour the ganache over the chilled pudding layers, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight to set.
Serve:
- Score the ganache before cutting the cake to make slicing easier.
- Serve each slice with fresh mint leaves if using.
- Keep any leftover cake covered and refrigerated.
If you’re looking for more no-bake desserts to make, there are several goodies on the blog. If fruit is more your thing, you have to try this Raspberry Ice Box Cake, or this Banana Split Ice Box Cake. S’mores pudding cups are another reader favorite for summer bashes.
If you can’t get enough of the ganache, also try these Boston cream pie cookies.
Recipe Substitutions and Variations
Pudding: Try banana pudding instead of vanilla for a different flavor. I actually have an old recipe post where I made banana eclair cake. Although it needs to be updated, it was still pretty tasty.
Chocolate: Swap the chips from semisweet to milk chocolate if you want a sweeter taste.
Crackers: Use chocolate graham crackers instead of original if you want to make it doubly chocolatey.
Topping: If you don’t want to make the ganache, you can use canned frosting.
Tools you’ll need
Here are some kitchen tools you’ll need for this recipe.
Storage
To store this classic ice box cake, just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
Tips & Tricks
- Soften the Crackers: Let the cake chill overnight. This step softens the graham crackers and blends the flavors beautifully.
- Scoring the Ganache: Before you cut the cake, score the ganache layer. This makes slicing the cake much easier and keeps the layers neat.
- Serving Suggestion: If you’re serving this at a party, add a sprig of fresh mint to each slice for a touch of fanciness and a fresh flavor boost.
- Ganache Tip: For the smoothest ganache, let the chocolate chips sit in the hot cream for a full five minutes before stirring. This makes sure they melt completely and mix well.
u003cstrongu003eCan I freeze this Eclair Cake?u003c/strongu003e
Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
u003cstrongu003eHow do I keep the layers from sliding?u003c/strongu003e
Make sure each layer is even and the pudding mixture is set a bit before adding another layer of crackers. Chilling the cake after assembling each layer can also help.
u003cstrongu003eCan I use different types of pudding?u003c/strongu003e
Absolutely! While vanilla is classic, you can experiment with chocolate, caramel, or even a seasonal pumpkin spice pudding for a twist.
u003cstrongu003eWhat if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan?u003c/strongu003e
You can use any similar-sized dish, or adjust the recipe proportions to fit the pan you have. Just keep in mind that the layer thickness may vary.
Chocolate Eclair Cake Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 packages Vanilla Instant Pudding 3.4 oz each
- 4 cup milk
- 16 oz whipped topping thawed
- 18 whole graham crackers about 2 sleeves
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz chocolate chips
- Fresh mint leaves optional, for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add pudding mix and whisk in milk until smooth, about 2 minutes. Stir in whipped topping thoroughly.2 packages Vanilla Instant Pudding, 4 cup milk, 16 oz whipped topping
- Place a layer of graham crackers in a 9×13 inch baking pan. Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers, add another layer of crackers, and top with the remaining pudding mixture. Refrigerate while preparing ganache.18 whole graham crackers
- To make ganache, heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Remove from heat, add chocolate chips, ensuring all are covered with cream. Let stand for 5 minutes, stir until smooth, and let cool for 10 more minutes. Spread ganache evenly over the pudding layers. Cover and refrigerate overnight.1 cup heavy whipping cream, 8 oz chocolate chips
- Before serving, score the ganache and cut the cake. Optional: garnish with fresh mint leaves. Cover and refrigerate any leftovers.Fresh mint leaves
Notes
Our Favorite
Layered Desserts
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