Description
This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake features layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding filling, and a smooth chocolate topping that softens into a cake-like texture after chilling. It is a rich, crowd-pleasing dessert made without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
1 box (about 12 oz) graham crackers
2 boxes (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
8 oz cool whip (thawed)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mixes and 3 cups cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Gently fold in the thawed cool whip until smooth and fully combined.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, using about one-third of the crackers to cover the surface.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top, then spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over it.
- Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, butter, and 2 tablespoons milk. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly to cover.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until the layers soften and set. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
For best texture and flavor, chill overnight before serving.
Substitute chocolate or French vanilla pudding for a flavor variation.
Use reduced-fat milk and light whipped topping for a lighter option.
Melt the chocolate topping using a double boiler if a microwave is unavailable.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze as texture may change.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg