What is Eclair Cake made of?

At its core, Eclair Cake is made from: Graham crackers (for layered structure) Vanilla pudding Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) Chocolate frosting or glaze It mimics the flavor of a classic eclair, but with way less effort — making it a perfect eclair icebox cake .

Does Eclair Cake need to be refrigerated overnight?

Yes. Chilling for at least 8 hours is key. It softens the graham crackers, letting them absorb the pudding and blend into a cake-like texture. Overnight chilling is best for clean slices and full flavor.

Can I use homemade pudding or whipped cream?

Definitely! Just make sure: The pudding is thick enough to hold layers The whipped cream is stabilized (add gelatin or cornstarch) if you're making the cake ahead — this prevents it from deflating

Can you freeze Eclair Cake for later?

Yes — this make-ahead eclair cake freezes beautifully: Freeze whole or sliced Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

What is an eclair cake exactly?

An eclair cake is a no-bake dessert made with layers of graham crackers , vanilla pudding , and whipped topping , all finished with a chocolate frosting . It mimics the flavors of a French éclair — but without the need for pastry dough or baking. Once chilled, the graham crackers soften to form cake-like layers, making it sliceable, creamy, and completely irresistible.

What’s the difference between an éclair and an eclair cake?

Great question! A traditional éclair is a French pastry made from choux dough , filled with pastry cream , and topped with chocolate ganache . In contrast, eclair cake is a simplified American twist that uses graham crackers instead of pastry, instant pudding instead of custard, and requires no baking. It’s all about ease and flavor with minimal effort.

What’s the best topping for eclair cake?

The most common and classic topping is chocolate frosting , either store-bought or homemade. However, you can level it up with chocolate ganache , Nutella , or a drizzle of caramel sauce . Garnishes like fresh berries , mint leaves , or crushed cookies can make your cake look as good as it tastes.

Can I make eclair cake ahead of time?

Yes — this make-ahead eclair cake freezes beautifully: Freeze whole or sliced Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

6 Reasons This Eclair Cake Will Be Your New Favorite Dessert

Description

This classic Eclair Cake is a no-bake dessert made with graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and chocolate frosting. Creamy, easy, and perfect for making ahead!

Ingredients

Scale

2 (3.5 oz) packages of instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold whole milk
1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 box graham crackers (about 14.4 oz)
1 (16 oz) container chocolate frosting
Optional: pinch of salt, 1 tsp vanilla extract for added flavor

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken.
Fold in whipped topping gently until fully incorporated.
Layer the Cake
In a 9×13 baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers.
Spread half of the pudding mixture on top.
Repeat with another graham cracker layer and the remaining pudding mixture.
Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
Frost the Top
Microwave chocolate frosting for 10–15 seconds to make it spreadable.
Evenly frost the top graham cracker layer.
Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) to allow crackers to soften.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (chill time: 8 hours recommended)
Category: No-Bake
Method: American
Cuisine: Vegetarian