Eclair Cake
User Reviews
5
Eclair Cake
Description
Eclair Cake is assembled by layering whole graham crackers with a mixture of vanilla instant pudding and whipped topping. The layers are topped with softened chocolate frosting, which adds a smooth, chocolaty finish. The pudding mixture gently softens the crackers overnight in the refrigerator, giving the dessert a soft, sliceable structure similar to traditional eclairs without any baking.
The pudding is made from instant mix based on package instructions folded into whipped topping for lightness. Using vanilla pudding keeps the flavors classic and mild, letting the rich chocolate frosting contrast the creamy filling. After chilling at least eight hours or overnight, the dessert slices easily and can be served as a sweet treat.
The recipe offers versatility with options to substitute pudding flavors or crackers, and it keeps refrigerated for up to five days. It can also be frozen for extended storage, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert choice.
Ingredients
- 2 vanilla instant pudding mix small boxes 3.4 oz each; plus milk as per package
- 1 (8 ounce) whipped topping frozen, thawed; such as Cool Whip
- 26 graham crackers whole
- 1 (16 ounce) chocolate frosting prepared, canned
Instructions
- In a large bowl, prepare both boxes of pudding according to package instructions. Gently fold in whipped topping. Set aside.
- Place a single layer of graham crackers in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch dish, breaking as necessary to cover the bottom (I used about 8 ½ graham cracker sheets per layer, but you may need more or less). Spread half of the pudding mixture on top of the graham crackers. Top with another layer of graham crackers and the rest of the pudding mixture. Finish with a third layer of graham crackers on top.
- Remove the lid and foil from the frosting. Microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or just until soft. Spread frosting over top of the cake.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cake time to set. Slice into squares and serve!
Notes
- Breaking graham crackers to fully cover the dish is expected; minor gaps won't affect the dessert.
- Vanilla, French Vanilla, or Cheesecake pudding mixes all work well for the filling.
- Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.
- Saltines or Nilla wafers can substitute graham crackers for a different texture.
- The chocolate frosting can be replaced with chocolate ganache for a richer topping.
- Optional mix-ins include banana slices, chocolate pudding for double chocolate flavor, or peanut butter.
- Store leftovers refrigerated up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months; thaw overnight before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16slices
Amount Per Serving
Calories 2503 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1slice | |
| Calories | 250.3kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 39.9g | 13% |
| Protein | 3.6g | 7% |
| Fat | 9.8g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1g | 11% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3g | 2% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.2g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 180mg | 60% |
| Sodium | 143.9mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 119.6mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 0.4g | 2% |
| Sugar | 31.2g | 62% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.