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Easy No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Icebox Cake

A decadent slice of chocolate eclair cake showing layers of graham crackers, cream filling, and rich chocolate ganache topping.

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Make this simple, crowd-pleasing No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake. It features creamy vanilla pudding layers separated by graham crackers and topped with a rich chocolate glaze. This is a quick, make-ahead dessert that requires no oven time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 box (14.4 ounces) graham crackers (about 30 full sheets)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vanilla filling: In a medium bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk together for two minutes until thickened. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until just combined.
  2. Assemble the first layer: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. You may need to break some crackers to fit the edges.
  3. Add the filling: Spread half of the vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer.
  4. Create the second layer: Top the pudding with a second layer of graham crackers, fitting them tightly together.
  5. Add the remaining filling: Spread the rest of the vanilla pudding mixture over the second graham cracker layer.
  6. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the crackers to soften.
  7. Prepare the chocolate glaze: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and melted. Remove from heat.
  8. Frost the cake: Pour the warm chocolate glaze over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly to cover the top layer completely.
  9. Final chill: Return the cake to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate topping to set before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a richer custard flavor, substitute the instant vanilla pudding with pre-made vanilla custard or pastry cream.
  • If you need to speed up the chilling time, place the cake in the freezer for 45 minutes after frosting, but watch carefully so it does not freeze solid.
  • This is a great make-ahead dessert; it tastes best when assembled one day before serving.

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