easy eclair cake recipe

easy eclair cake recipe

The Best easy eclair cake recipe

I’ve been making this easy eclair cake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic French dessert that’s been adapted to be easier to make at home.

The original eclair cake recipe involves making a pastry dough from scratch, but this version uses a simple graham cracker crust and a creamy filling. The result is a delicious and elegant dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.

I love how easy it is to make, yet it still tastes like a fancy bakery dessert. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and they always get excited when they see the finished product.

We’ve made this cake for birthday parties, family gatherings, and even just as a random Tuesday treat. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress, and it’s become a staple in our household.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize the filling to your liking with different flavors and toppings. My kids love helping me pick out the colors of the sprinkles on top, and we’ve even used different types of extract, like almond or coffee, to give it an extra boost of flavor.

It’s also surprisingly healthy considering how decadent it looks – I use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and the graham cracker crust is so much better than traditional pastry dough. Plus, it’s really easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve it.

Easy Eclair Cake

Easy Eclair Cake

4.9 from 854 votes

This no-bake eclair cake layers graham crackers with a creamy vanilla pudding filling and is topped with a rich chocolate glaze. It is a simple dessert that requires no oven time and tastes like a classic eclair.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pudding Layer

2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

For the Layers

1 (14.4 oz) box graham crackers

For the Chocolate Glaze

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons milk
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 3 cups cold milk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
2Fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined and smooth.
3Spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the graham crackers from sliding.
4Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the pudding, breaking crackers as needed to fit the dish.
5Spread half of the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
6Top with another layer of graham crackers, then spread the remaining pudding mixture on top.
7Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
8In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
9Whisk in the cocoa powder and 3 tablespoons milk until smooth and heated through, about 2 minutes.
10Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the glaze is glossy and smooth.
11Pour the warm chocolate glaze over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly with a spatula to cover completely.
12Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the graham crackers have softened into a cake-like texture.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Medium saucepan
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 380mg🌾Total Carbs: 54g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 38g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For best results, allow the cake to chill overnight so the graham crackers fully soften. You can substitute sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping to reduce calories. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Easy Eclair Cake Works

This easy eclair cake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re celebrating a special event or just need something delicious for dinner. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress, and I love how customizable it is with different flavors and toppings.

Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering how decadent it looks! You can easily store leftovers in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve them up again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Eclair Cake

Q: Can I use a different type of extract in the filling?

Yes, you can experiment with different extracts like almond, coffee, or even lemon to give your eclair cake a unique flavor. Just be aware that some extracts may change the color or texture of the filling slightly.

Q: How long does this cake last in the fridge?

This cake will typically last for 3-5 days in the fridge, depending on how well you store it. Make sure to keep it tightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Q: Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?

While I highly recommend making your own graham cracker crust from scratch, you can use a store-bought one as a substitute if needed. Just be aware that the texture may not be as crispy.

Q: How do I freeze this cake?

To freeze this cake, simply place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this cake gluten-free by substituting the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or coconut flour. Just be aware that gluten-free flours may behave differently and require some adjustments to the recipe.

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