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No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake

A simple, no-bake dessert that mimics the classic flavors of a French eclair using graham crackers, vanilla cream, and chocolate ganache or frosting.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 10 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cream Filling
  • 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
  • 3 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 container frozen whipped topping (8 oz, fully thawed) Cool Whip or equivalent
For the Layers
  • 2 sleeves graham crackers (about 27-30 full cracker sheets)
For the Chocolate Topping - Option A (Frosting)
  • 1 container store-bought chocolate frosting (16 oz)
For the Chocolate Topping - Option B (Ganache)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional, for shine)

Method
 

Making the Vanilla Cream Filling
  1. Pour the instant vanilla pudding mix into a large mixing bowl and add the cold whole milk.
  2. Whisk the pudding and milk together for about 2 minutes until thickened.
  3. Let the pudding sit for 3-4 minutes to firm up.
  4. Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently until no white streaks remain.
Assembling the Layers
  1. Choose a 9x13 inch rectangular baking dish.
  2. Place a layer of graham cracker sheets across the bottom of the pan.
  3. Spoon half of the cream filling over the first layer of crackers and spread evenly.
  4. Add a second layer of graham crackers and then the remaining cream filling.
  5. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
Adding the Chocolate Topping
  1. For frosting: Microwave the frosting for 20-25 seconds, then spread over the top layer of graham crackers.
  2. For ganache: Heat heavy cream until bubbles form, then add chocolate chips and butter without stirring. After 90 seconds, whisk until smooth, stir in corn syrup if using, then pour over the top layer.
Chilling and Setting
  1. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Once chilled, slice with a hot knife for clean edges.

Notes

For best results, allow the cake to chill overnight. The chocolate ganache creates a richer topping; use frosting for convenience. Can be customized with fruit or other flavor variations.