Description
If you’re craving a no-bake dessert that combines simplicity and indulgence, Chocolate Eclair Cake is your go-to! With creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, layers of graham crackers, and a decadent chocolate ganache, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that tastes just like a classic chocolate eclair – no oven needed. Whether you’re planning quick breakfast treats, searching for easy dinner dessert ideas, or just need a reliable sweet snack, this easy recipe fits every occasion. Loved for its nostalgic flavor and minimal effort, it’s one of the best food ideas to keep in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients
3 cups cold whole milk
2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
1 box graham crackers (about 18 full sheets)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
0.5 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons corn syrup (optional)
1 pinch salt
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let it sit for another 1–2 minutes.
2. Fold in the whipped topping gently until the filling is smooth and fluffy.
3. In a 9×13 inch dish, place a single layer of graham crackers, breaking pieces to fit fully.
4. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers.
5. Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding.
6. Spread the remaining pudding mixture over that second cracker layer.
7. Finish with one last layer of graham crackers on top.
8. For the ganache: heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add corn syrup and salt if desired.
9. Spread the ganache evenly over the final graham cracker layer.
10. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.
11. Slice and serve cold.
Notes
Letting the cake chill overnight enhances the texture and flavor dramatically.
You can use French vanilla or cheesecake pudding for a flavor variation.
If you’re in a rush, use canned chocolate frosting, slightly warmed for easy spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg