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Chocolate Eclair Cake is that perfect no-bake dessert that takes all the best parts of an eclair and transforms them into one incredible layered treat. With creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, layers of graham crackers, and a rich chocolate glaze, it tastes like a decadent bakery delight without needing an oven.

It’s one of those desserts that gets better as it sits. The layers meld beautifully overnight, making each bite tender, smooth, and packed with nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday, potluck, or just because it’s Wednesday, this cake wins every time.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Eclair Cake

This cake is the ultimate in ease and indulgence. You don’t need to be a baker to pull it off, and it always impresses. It’s cool, creamy, chocolatey, and perfectly sweet. The texture contrast between soft pudding and crisp graham crackers (that soften to cake-like perfection) is dreamy.

It also serves a crowd and can be made in advance, which makes it a go-to favorite for busy gatherings. And let’s be honest: anything with chocolate glaze on top instantly earns dessert royalty status.

Can I Use Homemade Pudding Instead?

Absolutely! If you prefer making vanilla pudding from scratch, it works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before layering. Homemade pudding adds an extra-rich flavor, but boxed instant pudding makes this recipe ultra-quick and just as delicious.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Eclair Cake

This dessert relies on pantry staples that come together to make something incredibly special. What you put in it matters, so here’s why each item belongs:

• Graham crackers
• Instant vanilla pudding mix
• Cold milk
• Whipped topping
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Light corn syrup

The graham crackers form the structure of the cake, softening into a perfect cake-like texture. Instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk blend together for a silky filling. The whipped topping makes the filling airy and light. For the chocolate glaze, semi-sweet chocolate chips, heavy cream, and unsalted butter melt into a rich topping, and a touch of light corn syrup gives it a glossy finish.

How To Make the Chocolate Eclair Cake

Step 1: Make the Pudding Filling

In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Layer the Cake

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay down a layer of graham crackers. Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers. Add another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining pudding. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, butter, and corn syrup together. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and add the heavy cream, stirring until glossy and pourable.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Pour the chocolate glaze over the top layer of graham crackers. Spread evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Eclair Cake

This no-bake beauty serves around 12 generous slices, though it can stretch further depending on how you slice it. It’s best served chilled, straight from the fridge. As it sets, the layers turn into a soft, fork-tender cake.

To store leftovers, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment and foil for a quick treat anytime.

What to Serve With Chocolate Eclair Cake?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries on the side add a tart contrast to the sweetness.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the rich chocolate topping beautifully.

Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

It might seem like overkill, but the cool creamy scoop just works.

Glass of Cold Milk

Classic pairing. Nothing wrong with keeping it old-school.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

A light fizzy drink cleanses the palate between sweet bites.

Whipped Cream Topping

More whipped cream never hurts, especially with a dusting of cocoa powder.

Crushed Nuts

Chopped pecans or almonds can add a little crunch if sprinkled on top before serving.

Want More No-Bake Dessert Ideas?

If you loved this Chocolate Eclair Cake, check out more sweet inspiration like these:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for a melt-in-your-mouth caramelized treat.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars to reinvent your favorite candies.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy, tropical bite.
• No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Pie bursting with citrus flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a peanut butter layer? Maybe tried it with chocolate graham crackers?

I love hearing your twists on classics. Questions are always welcome — let’s make this dessert even better together.

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