There’s something magical about a No-Bake Eclair Cake that makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. With layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and a rich chocolate topping, this dessert tastes just like a classic eclair without the fuss of baking. Quick to assemble and deliciously indulgent, this is the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, holidays, or whenever you need a sweet treat without turning on the oven.
I first tried this No-Bake Eclair Cake at a family potluck, and I was blown away by how something so simple could taste so good. Since then, it’s become my go-to recipe when I want a no-fuss dessert that everyone loves. Ready to see why this Eclair Cake is bound to become your new favorite?
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Eclair Cake

Prepare to fall in love with this dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. This No-Bake Eclair Cake brings all the flavors of a traditional eclair in a super simple, no-bake form.
First, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make. With only five main ingredients and no need for baking, you can have it ready in under 30 minutes. Just layer it, chill it, and you’re done!
Secondly, this eclair cake has an amazing creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The graham crackers absorb the moisture from the pudding, softening into cake-like layers that taste decadent without any extra effort.
Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also great for feeding a crowd. Since it’s made in a 9x13-inch pan, this recipe is perfect for parties, barbecues, and potlucks.
Finally, this No-Bake Eclair Cake is perfect for any season. In the summer, it’s a cool, refreshing dessert; in winter, it’s a classic comfort food. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients that make this cake irresistible.
Ingredients Notes

This No-Bake Eclair Cake comes together with just a handful of ingredients, each contributing to the layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Graham Crackers: These form the “cake” layers of the dessert. The graham crackers soften as they chill with the pudding, giving the whole dish a cake-like texture. Regular graham crackers work well, but you can also use chocolate graham crackers for extra flavor.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This is the creamy heart of the dessert. Using instant vanilla pudding makes the filling quick to prepare. If you prefer, you can also substitute with French vanilla or chocolate pudding for a twist on the traditional flavor.
- Milk: Cold milk is essential for setting the pudding. Use whole or 2% milk for a richer, creamier texture. If you're dairy-free, almond or oat milk can work, but the texture may be slightly thinner.
- Cool Whip (or Whipped Topping): The Cool Whip gives the pudding mixture a light and airy texture, making each layer creamy and fluffy. You can also make homemade whipped cream, but the Cool Whip holds up best in the refrigerator.
- Chocolate Frosting: This is the “icing” on the cake, literally! Ready-to-use chocolate frosting creates the classic eclair topping with ease. You can also use a homemade ganache by melting chocolate chips with a bit of heavy cream if you prefer a richer topping.
No special equipment is needed to make this dessert – just a mixing bowl, a spatula, and a 9x13-inch baking dish.
How To Make This No-Bake Eclair Cake
Making this No-Bake Eclair Cake couldn’t be easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious dessert.
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for 2-3 minutes until the pudding starts to thicken. Gently fold in the Cool Whip (or whipped topping) until fully incorporated, making sure the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Graham Crackers: Spread a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. You may need to break some crackers to fit and cover the entire base of the pan.
- Add a Layer of Pudding: Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer. Use a spatula to make sure it’s smooth and covers the crackers completely.
- Repeat the Layers: Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding, then spread the remaining pudding mixture over this layer. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers on top.
- Spread the Chocolate Frosting: If using canned frosting, microwave it for about 15 seconds to make it easier to spread. Pour the frosting over the top layer of graham crackers and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate the eclair cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This chilling time allows the graham crackers to soften and the layers to meld together. When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy!
With just a little prep time and a few hours of chilling, this No-Bake Eclair Cake is ready to be the star of any dessert table.
Storage Options
One of the great things about this No-Bake Eclair Cake is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness:
- Refrigerator: Store the eclair cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. The flavors actually improve as it chills, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert.
- Freezer: You can also freeze the eclair cake for up to two months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
This No-Bake Eclair Cake is easy to customize, and you can change up the flavors to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Use Different Pudding Flavors: While vanilla is the classic choice, you can swap it for chocolate, butterscotch, or even banana pudding for a twist. Each flavor creates a unique take on the classic dessert.
- Chocolate Graham Crackers: Swap out regular graham crackers for chocolate graham crackers to add an extra layer of chocolate flavor to every bite.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: If you prefer, you can make homemade whipped cream instead of using Cool Whip. Simply whip 1 ½ cups of heavy cream with a tablespoon of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it as you would the Cool Whip.
- Add Fresh Fruit: For a fruity twist, add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the graham crackers and pudding mixture. This can add a refreshing element and makes the dessert even more unique.
- Alternative Toppings: Instead of chocolate frosting, try a simple chocolate ganache by melting chocolate chips with heavy cream. This gives a rich, glossy finish. Or, drizzle caramel or sprinkle crushed nuts over the top for a different texture.
With so many ways to make it your own, you’ll never get tired of this No-Bake Eclair Cake.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Eclair Cake is everything you could want in a dessert – easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. It has all the creamy layers and chocolatey goodness of a classic eclair, but with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing it for a potluck, holiday gathering, or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with your new go-to no-bake dessert!
PrintNo Bake Eclair Cake Recipe
This No-Bake Eclair Cake is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that layers graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or an effortless treat, it combines classic flavors with minimal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 (3.5 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 box graham crackers (about 14.4 oz)
- 1 can (16 oz) chocolate frosting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened.
- Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding layer.
- Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer of graham crackers.
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
- Remove lid from the can of frosting and microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften.
- Pour and spread the softened frosting over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Notes
- For best flavor, chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften.
- You can substitute chocolate frosting with homemade ganache for a richer topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 290mg
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