Eclair Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Eclair Cake is a simple yet indulgent treat that captures the flavors of a classic eclair, but in an easy-to-assemble form. The graham crackers mimic the crispiness of the eclair shell, while the vanilla pudding and chocolate glaze give you all the flavors of the cream filling and chocolate topping. It’s a perfect dessert for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it can be made a day ahead, which makes it a great option for planning ahead.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers (about 3 sleeves)

• 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 1/2 cups milk

• 8 oz cool whip (whipped topping)

For the chocolate glaze:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the pudding filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix and the milk. Continue whisking until the pudding thickens, about 2 minutes.

• Fold in the cool whip until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will give the pudding a light and fluffy texture.

2. Assemble the cake layers:

• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the bottom with a single layer of graham crackers. You may need to break the crackers into smaller pieces to fill the dish entirely.

• Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.

• Repeat the layers: add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.

3. Make the chocolate glaze:

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the milk and cocoa powder, whisking until smooth.

• Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until the glaze is smooth and glossy.

• Remove the glaze from the heat and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before pouring it over the top of the graham cracker layers.

4. Chill the cake:

• Pour the chocolate glaze over the final layer of graham crackers and spread it evenly with a spatula.

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight). This allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the pudding, giving the cake its signature texture.

5. Serve:

• Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, chocolatey, and crunchy layers in every bite!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 people

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add fruit: For a fruity twist, add sliced bananas or strawberries between the layers of graham crackers and pudding. This creates a delicious flavor contrast and adds freshness to the dessert.

• Flavored glaze: You can make a white chocolate glaze instead of a chocolate one by using white chocolate chips and adjusting the milk and powdered sugar for consistency.

• Peanut butter version: Add peanut butter to the pudding mixture (about 1/2 cup) to create a peanut butter eclair cake. Pair it with a chocolate glaze for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.

Storage/Reheating

Eclair Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best served chilled, and the graham crackers will continue to soften the longer it sits, which only enhances the flavor. Avoid freezing the cake, as it will alter the texture of the graham crackers and the whipped topping.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of cool whip?

Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for the cool whip. Just make sure to use about 2 cups of whipped cream to replace the cool whip, and gently fold it into the pudding mixture.

Can I make this cake without graham crackers?

While graham crackers are the traditional choice for this dessert, you could try using vanilla wafer cookies or digestive biscuits for a slight variation in texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld together better when the cake sits for a few hours or overnight, so it’s ideal for preparing the night before you plan to serve it.

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

While vanilla is traditional, you can experiment with different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as chocolate, butterscotch, or even banana cream, for a fun twist on the classic.

Is there a way to make the cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free graham crackers for regular ones to make this cake gluten-free. Make sure that the pudding mix and whipped topping you’re using are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Eclair Cake is an indulgent, creamy dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and chocolate glaze come together in perfect harmony, creating a treat that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party, a family gathering, or just as a special after-dinner dessert, Eclair Cake is sure to impress with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, decadent flavor

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