Éclair Cake Recipe (with Video)

Éclair Cake Recipe: Who doesn’t love a classic éclair? But what if I told you that you could enjoy all that deliciousness without the hassle of making pastry shells? That’s where this Éclair Cake comes in! This no-bake dessert has all the flavors of a traditional éclair—creamy vanilla pudding, rich chocolate ganache, and a deliciously soft texture from graham crackers.

The best part? It’s super easy to make and requires just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a party or just treating yourself, this éclair cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients Needed

Essential Ingredients

To make this simple yet delicious cake, you’ll need:

• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 box graham crackers
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup corn syrup (optional, for glossy ganache)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutes and Variations

• Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a richer texture.
• Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or banana pudding for a different flavor twist.
• Add sliced strawberries between layers for a fruity touch.

Tools and Equipment Required

Baking Essentials

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)

Alternative Tools You Can Use

• Instead of a whisk, you can use an electric hand mixer for a smoother pudding mixture.
• A double boiler can be used to melt the chocolate instead of a microwave.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pudding Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.
2. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Layering the Graham Crackers

1. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers at the bottom.
2. Break the crackers as needed to ensure full coverage.

Step 3: Adding the Pudding Mixture

1. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
2. Use a spatula to smooth out the layer.

Step 4: Repeating the Layers

1. Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding.
2. Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer.
3. Finish with one more layer of graham crackers on top.

Step 5: Making the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot (about 1 minute).
2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
4. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 6: Spreading the Ganache

1. Pour the chocolate ganache over the final graham cracker layer.
2. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Chilling and Serving the Cake

How Long to Refrigerate

• Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best!
• The chilling time allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the pudding, creating that perfect éclair-like texture.

Best Way to Serve

• Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into squares.
• Serve chilled with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Tips for the Perfect Éclair Cake

Making it Extra Creamy

• Use whole milk instead of low-fat for a richer pudding texture.
• Let the pudding thicken before layering to prevent a runny cake.

Preventing a Soggy Cake

• Ensure the cake chills long enough for the layers to blend.
• If the pudding is too thin, add a little less milk to keep it firm.

Variations of the Éclair Cake

Strawberry Éclair Cake

• Add a layer of sliced strawberries between the pudding layers.
• Use strawberry pudding instead of vanilla for a fruity twist.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Éclair Cake

• Add a layer of peanut butter between the graham crackers.
• Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the chocolate ganache.

Keto & Low-Carb Éclair Cake

• Use sugar-free pudding and almond flour crackers instead of graham crackers.
• Substitute the ganache with sugar-free chocolate chips and heavy cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store in the Fridge

• Cover the cake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can You Freeze Éclair Cake?

• Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs about Éclair Cake Recipe

What ingredients are needed for an éclair cake?

Typically, an éclair cake requires instant vanilla pudding, graham crackers, whipped topping, and a chocolate frosting. Some recipes might also include milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

Is baking required for an éclair cake?

No, éclair cake is a no-bake dessert. The layers of graham crackers soften from the moisture in the pudding and whipped topping, mimicking the texture of a traditional éclair pastry.

How long does it take to prepare an éclair cake?

Preparation time is generally about 20 minutes. However, the cake needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld together properly.

Can I use something other than vanilla pudding?

Absolutely! While vanilla pudding is traditional, you can experiment with chocolate, banana, or even a seasonal pumpkin spice pudding to give your éclair cake a unique twist.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

For a different texture or flavor, you can use ladyfingers, digestive biscuits, or even thin chocolate chip cookies as alternatives to graham crackers.

How do I make the chocolate frosting for the cake?

Most recipes call for a quick homemade frosting made from cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and butter. This mixture is heated and stirred until smooth, then spread over the top layer of the cake.

Is éclair cake freezer-friendly?

Yes, éclair cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy this easy, no-bake éclair cake that’s perfect for any occasion!