No Bake Eclair Cake
Feb 10, 2025
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If you are looking for a simple, no-bake dessert that is sure to impress, then you need to try this eclair cake recipe. Made with layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and chocolate frosting, this dreamy dessert is guaranteed to be a hit.
I’m all about an easy, no-fuss dessert recipe and this no-bake eclair cake is one of my favorites. I first had this classic icebox cake years ago at a family reunion and have been making it ever since.
This dessert is perfect when you need something simple, delicious, and can feed a crowd. I like making it for holidays, potlucks, and BBQ’s.
If you want more graham cracker desserts be sure to try this pecan pie bark and churro saltine toffee.
What makes this recipe so good
- No bake. It’s hard to beat a no-bake dessert, especially in the Summer. This icebox cake can be put together in minutes and then chilled in the refrigerator.
- Easy to make ahead. This is the perfect treat to make ahead of time. The longer it sit, the better the texture gets.
- Delicious eclair flavor. If you are hungry for the taste of eclairs, this is the perfect recipe, especially if you aren’t a baker.
- Few ingredients. There is a good change you might have these ingredients in your pantry already.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
You only need a few ingredients to make this no-bake dessert recipe. See the recipe card for the amount needed.
- Graham crackers – I like using honey graham crackers but feel free to use your favorite.
- Pudding mix – You will want to use instant pudding. I like using vanilla or french vanilla.
- Milk – Cold milk is used to make the pudding layer.
- Vanilla extract – This adds a little extra flavor.
- Cool Whip – Thawed whipped topping gives the pudding layer extra creaminess.
- Chocolate frosting – You can use your favorite chocolate frosting to top this eclair cake.
Variations
This is super simple recipe that you can make your own by changing a few ingredients.
- Pudding – Instead of using vanilla pudding, try substituting with french vanilla, cheesecake, lemon, or even chocolate pudding.
- Graham crackers – Substitute honey graham crackers with cinnamon graham crackers or chocolate graham crackers.
- Frosting – Try vanilla frosting or even a strawberry frosting.
How to make eclair cake
Scroll to the bottom for the full, printable recipe.
Step one: Pour the pudding mix in a large bowl. Add a little of the milk and whisk. Continue adding the milk and whisk until creamy.
Step two: Stir in the thawed Cool Whip until combined.
Step three: Line the bottom of a baking dish with graham crackers. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
Step four: Place another layer of graham crackers on the pudding and then the rest of the pudding mixture.
Step five: Top with one last layer of graham crackers.
Step six: Spread chocolate frosting over the graham crackers. Cover and refrigerate. Let it chill for at least 4 hours for the best results.
Heather’s recipe tips
- Whisk well. One tip for making sure your pudding doesn’t get lumps is slowly adding a little milk to the pudding mix while whisking. Make sure to really whisk well to remove any lumps.
- Warm the chocolate frosting. I like to microwave the frosting for about 10 seconds to help make it easy to spread.
- Chill the dessert. It’s important to let the eclair cake chill in the refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps to soften the graham crackers making it easy to eat.
How to store
Store any leftovers covered, in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: You can freeze this cake covered in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Frequently asked questions
This cake can be made about 1 day in advance.
I recommend letting it chill at least 4 hours. Overnight is best.
Yes, this icebox cake can be frozen. I like to wrap it in plastic wrap and then in foil.
More no bake desserts
- Coconut balls – A simple 2 ingredient dessert.
- Chocolate chip cheesecake dip – A creamy dip filled with chocolate chips.
- Rice Krispie Treats with marshmallow fluff – A simple way to make cereal treats.
No Bake Eclair Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box graham crackers
- 2 3.4 oz boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 ½ cups milk
- 1 8 ounce Cool Whip
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 12 ounce chocolate frosting
Instructions
- Pour the vanilla pudding mixes in a large bowl. Pour in a little of the cold milk. Whisk the mixture. Pour in the rest of the milk and keep whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Stir the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding.
- Line a 9 x 11 baking dish with graham crackers. Make sure to place them in a single layer.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers and then top with the remaining pudding mixture.
- Top with one more layer of graham crackers. Spread the chocolate frosting over the top of the graham crackers.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
