Description
This No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert featuring layers of vanilla pudding, whipped topping, graham crackers, and a rich homemade chocolate glaze. Perfect for any occasion, it requires no baking and combines creamy and crunchy textures with rich chocolate flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 box graham crackers
Chocolate Glaze
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Cake: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture. Place a single layer of graham crackers over the pudding to cover the surface. Repeat layering with remaining pudding and graham crackers, finishing with a top layer of pudding.
- Make the Chocolate Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Top the Cake: Pour the chocolate glaze evenly over the top layer of pudding, smoothing it out with a spatula to cover the surface completely.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve cold. Enjoy the creamy, chocolatey, no-bake delight!
Notes
- For best results, chill the cake overnight to allow the layers to set fully.
- Use full-fat milk and whipped topping for creamier texture.
- Graham crackers soften as they absorb moisture from pudding, mimicking the texture of pastry.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Optional: Add sliced bananas between layers for extra flavor.
