If you love the rich, chocolate-topped flavor of traditional éclairs but don’t feel like dealing with choux pastry, an Éclair Cake is the perfect shortcut. This no-bake dessert stacks graham crackers, silky vanilla pudding, a fluffy cream cheese layer, and chocolate frosting to create all the same flavors—without ever turning on the oven. It’s quick, nostalgic, and ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or any day you’re craving something creamy and indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

• 2 sleeves graham crackers (about 12 sheets)
• 2 packages (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding
• 3 cups milk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups whipped topping (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 jar chocolate frosting (or homemade chocolate glaze)
• Optional: splash of vanilla extract for extra depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding

1. Combine pudding mix and milk according to package directions.
2. Whisk until thick and smooth.
3. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add powdered sugar gradually and mix well.
3. Fold in half the whipped topping gently to create a light, creamy filling.

Step 3: Build the Graham Cracker Layers

1. Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish with graham crackers, breaking pieces to fit as needed.
2. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the crackers.
3. Pour half of the pudding on top and smooth it out.
4. Repeat the layers: graham crackers → remaining cream mixture → remaining pudding.
5. Add a final layer of graham crackers on top.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping

1. Slightly warm the chocolate frosting so it becomes easy to spread.
2. Smooth it evenly over the top graham cracker layer.
3. Create swirls or a marbled finish if you want a decorative look.

Step 5: Chill the Cake

1. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.
2. This resting time softens the graham crackers into a cake-like texture.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Cut into squares or rectangles.
2. Add extra whipped topping or chocolate shavings if you want a fancy finish.
3. Serve cold and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness.

Tips for the Best Éclair Cake

• Use softened ingredients: Especially cream cheese—it creates a smoother filling.
• Don’t crush the crackers: They’ll soften perfectly during chilling.
• Make it ahead: This dessert truly improves after resting overnight.
• Flavor twist: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or add a little cocoa to the cream layer for extra richness.

Why This Recipe Works

Éclair Cake brilliantly mimics the layers of a classic éclair:

• Graham crackers act like tender pastry.
• Vanilla pudding stands in for silky pastry cream.
• The cream cheese layer adds richness and balance.
• Chocolate frosting finishes the dessert with that signature éclair shine.

With no baking, no complex techniques, and inexpensive ingredients, this dessert delivers bakery-level flavor with almost zero effort. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays, birthdays, and weeknight treats alike.