No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake: A Classic Dessert Made Easy

No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake: A Classic Dessert Made Easy

Introduction

Eclair cake is a classic dessert that is typically made with choux pastry, but this no-bake version is a breeze to prepare. It features layers of creamy filling, graham crackers, and a decadent chocolate frosting. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• For the Filling:*
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (16 ounce) container whipped topping
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
• For the Graham Cracker Layers:*
  • 24-30 graham crackers, depending on the size of your dish
• For the Chocolate Frosting:*
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes.
   • Add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture and beat until well combined.
   • Fold in the whipped topping.

2. Assemble the Cake:

   • Line the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with a layer of graham crackers. You may need to break some crackers to fit.
   • Spread half of the cream cheese filling over the graham cracker layer.
   • Add another layer of graham crackers over the filling.
   • Spread the remaining cream cheese filling over the graham cracker layer.
   • Top with a final layer of graham crackers.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:

   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth.
   • Remove from heat and gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until smooth and creamy.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Frost and Chill:

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   • Pour the chocolate frosting over the top layer of graham crackers, spreading evenly.
   • Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Cut the no-bake chocolate eclair cake into squares and serve chilled.

Conclusion

This no-bake chocolate eclair cake is a delicious and easy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy filling, soft graham crackers, and rich chocolate frosting make this dessert a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great make-ahead dessert that can be enjoyed for days. Feel free to experiment with different flavors of pudding or toppings to create your own unique version of this classic dessert. Enjoy!