Chocolate Eclair Cake (No-Bake)

There are recipes that feel like a warm hug, the kind that spark memories of family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight indulgences when you just need a little something sweet to celebrate the everyday. This Chocolate Eclair Cake (No-Bake) is all of that and more. It’s a cool, creamy dessert that layers the comfort of vanilla pudding with the crunch of graham crackers and tops it all off with a rich, homemade chocolate glaze. What’s not to love?

What Is Chocolate Eclair Cake?

Chocolate Eclair Cake is an old-school dessert that’s stood the test of time for one simple reason—it’s just that good. Modeled after the classic French éclair, this version swaps out delicate choux pastry for graham crackers and simplifies the pastry cream into a vanilla pudding and whipped topping mix. It’s easy to make, stores well, and offers a satisfying bite of creamy, cakey, chocolatey goodness that’s hard to resist.

This is the kind of dessert that’s made for gatherings. You make it the night before, let it chill, and when it’s finally time to serve, it slices up beautifully into tidy squares that deliver the full flavor of a chocolate-covered éclair.

Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Dessert

There are plenty of reasons this Chocolate Eclair Cake will become your go-to dessert:

• No oven required. Perfect for hot days or busy weeks when you want dessert without the fuss.
• Minimal prep time. You can throw this together in about 20 minutes.
• Make-ahead friendly. It actually gets better as it chills, so making it the day before is ideal.
• Pantry staple ingredients. There’s nothing fancy here—just good, reliable staples you likely already have.
• Endlessly customizable. You can change up the flavors or add fresh fruit for a twist.

What It Tastes Like

Imagine the classic chocolate éclair, with its silky vanilla cream filling and glossy chocolate top. Now turn that into a cold, scoopable, sliceable dessert. That’s exactly what this cake delivers. The graham crackers soften into a cake-like layer, the vanilla pudding and whipped topping blend into a smooth, almost mousse-like cream, and the homemade chocolate topping adds a rich, slightly fudgy finish.

Each bite is layered perfection—creamy, slightly chewy from the softened crackers, and that top layer of chocolate? Decadent without being overpowering. It’s nostalgic and indulgent, all at once.

Health and Practical Benefits

While we’re not going to pretend this is a low-calorie treat, it does come with its perks. It’s incredibly practical for busy families or anyone hosting a gathering. With a short ingredient list, easy steps, and make-ahead benefits, it’s a time-saver. And for those avoiding turning on the oven during warm months, this dessert is a gift.

Plus, because it’s assembled cold, it’s a safe recipe for kids to help with—no baking or knives involved. Just mix, layer, and chill.

Ingredients

For the cream filling:

• 2 (3.4 oz) packages of instant vanilla pudding mix
• 5 cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) tub of Cool Whip, thawed
• 1 box of graham crackers

For the chocolate topping:

• 1½ sticks of butter (¾ cup)
• 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons milk

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula
• Saucepan for the chocolate glaze
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some fun ways you can make it your own:

• Pudding flavor: Use French vanilla, cheesecake, or even banana pudding for a new twist.
• Cracker base: Try chocolate or cinnamon graham crackers for added depth.
• Whipped topping: Use homemade whipped cream if you prefer to avoid store-bought Cool Whip. Just be sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks.
• Add fruit: Layer in thin slices of banana, strawberries, or raspberries between the pudding layers for added freshness.
• Make it nutty: Add crushed toasted almonds or pecans over the chocolate layer before chilling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Layer

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding and cold milk for about two minutes until it thickens. Don’t rush this step—give it time to fully set. Once thickened, gently fold in the Cool Whip until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Cake Layers

In your 9×13-inch baking dish, lay down a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom. Break pieces if needed to ensure full coverage. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers and smooth it out evenly. Add another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining pudding mixture. Finish with one final layer of graham crackers on top.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Frosting

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chocolate chips and stir until smooth and fully melted. Remove from the heat and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. The glaze should be glossy and pourable—if it’s too thick, add a touch more milk. Let the mixture cool slightly before pouring it over the top graham cracker layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 4: Chill

Cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld together into that perfect, cake-like texture.

Step 5: Serve

Once fully chilled, slice into squares and serve cold. The layers hold beautifully, and each piece delivers the full chocolate éclair experience.

What to Serve With Chocolate Eclair Cake

Since this cake is sweet and creamy, it’s nice to balance it out with something lighter on the side. Here are some serving ideas:

• Fresh berries or a berry salad
• Espresso or a hot cup of coffee
• Light cocktails like a mimosa or spritzer
• A simple scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream
• Whipped cream with a dusting of cocoa powder

Tips for Success

• Make it the night before to give the dessert enough time to set.
• Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother, richer glaze.
• For neat slices, use a hot knife (run it under hot water and dry between cuts).
• Keep it covered in the fridge to prevent the chocolate glaze from drying out.
• Don’t be tempted to serve early—this cake really needs the chill time to reach peak flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to five days. The texture may become even softer after the second day, but it still tastes incredible.

Freezer: This dessert also freezes well. Slice into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

General Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 6 to 24 hours
• Total Time: Up to 1 day, depending on chill time
• Serves: 12
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
• Cuisine: American comfort dessert

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, but be sure it’s fully cooled and thickened before using. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely! Just use gluten-free graham crackers and check that your pudding mix and chocolate chips are gluten-free.

Can I reduce the sugar in the chocolate glaze?
You can, but the glaze will be less sweet and slightly more bitter, depending on the chocolate you use. Try using just one cup of powdered sugar if you prefer a less sweet finish.

What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
Homemade whipped cream works great. Whip about 1½ cups of heavy cream with a few tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold into the pudding.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Eclair Cake (No-Bake) is a love letter to those nostalgic desserts that require little effort but deliver big flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that people remember and request again and again. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned baker, this recipe is a winner every single time. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.

Looking for more irresistible dessert ideas? Check out these reader-favorite recipes that also bring fun, flavor, and just the right amount of indulgence:

• PB&J Cupcakes – A playful twist on a childhood classic, turned into a delightful handheld dessert.
• OMG Soft Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies – These truly earn their name. Buttery, gooey, and packed with chocolate.
• Buttery Raspberry Crumble Cookies – Tart, sweet, and buttery in every bite.

Share Your Dessert!

If you make this Chocolate Eclair Cake, I’d love to see how it turns out! Leave a comment below and tell me how it went. Don’t forget to tag your photos on Pinterest or your favorite social platform—I always enjoy seeing your creations and hearing your twists on the recipe.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 360
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 31g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fiber: 1g

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