Imagine a dessert that combines the best of a chocolate éclair and Boston cream pie—this cake is exactly that!
With layers of creamy vanilla pudding, graham crackers, and rich chocolate ganache, it’s an easy no-bake treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant French vanilla pudding
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 oz container whipped topping, thawed
- 14 oz box graham crackers
For the ganache:
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding and milk for 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping.
Step 2: In a 9×13-inch dish, layer graham crackers on the bottom, then spread half of the pudding mixture over them.
Add another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining pudding mixture, followed by a final layer of graham crackers.
Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
Step 4: To make the ganache, heat the cream and butter in a saucepan until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil).
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Stir the cream and chocolate together until smooth, then pour over the top graham cracker layer. Spread evenly.
Step 6: Cover and chill for at least 8 hours or up to 2 days. The longer it chills, the softer the graham crackers will become. Slice and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different flavored pudding?
Yes, feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate or butterscotch.
2. How long can I store this cake?
It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use a different topping instead of ganache?
You can use chocolate frosting or even a store-bought ganache for convenience.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made a day ahead as it allows the graham crackers to soften.
5. What can I serve with this cake?
Serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 2 packs instant French vanilla pudding (3.4 oz each)
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 oz container whipped topping thawed
- 14 oz box graham crackers
For the ganache:
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding and milk for 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping.
- In a 9×13-inch dish, layer graham crackers on the bottom, then spread half of the pudding mixture over them.
- Add another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining pudding mixture, followed by a final layer of graham crackers.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
- To make the ganache, heat the cream and butter in a saucepan until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Stir the cream and chocolate together until smooth, then pour over the top graham cracker layer. Spread evenly.
- Cover and chill for at least 8 hours or up to 2 days.
- The longer it chills, the softer the graham crackers will become. Slice and serve.