Experience the delightful combination of creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy cool whip, and crispy graham crackers, all topped with a rich chocolate glaze in this scrumptious eclair cake.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common household staples, you might need to pick up instant vanilla pudding, cool whip, and graham crackers at the supermarket. These items are essential to creating the layered texture and flavor of the eclair cake.
Ingredients for Eclair Cake Recipe
instant vanilla pudding: This is a pre-packaged mix that creates a creamy vanilla-flavored pudding when combined with milk.
whole milk: Provides a rich and creamy base for the pudding mixture.
cool whip: A whipped topping that adds lightness and fluffiness to the pudding layer.
graham crackers: These are used to create the distinct layers in the eclair cake, adding a subtle crunch.
butter: Used in the chocolate glaze to add richness and smoothness.
cocoa: Provides the chocolate flavor in the glaze.
powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the chocolate glaze.
vanilla: Enhances the flavor of both the pudding and the glaze.
One reader, Hedwig Santana says:
This eclair cake recipe is a delightful treat! The layers of creamy pudding and graham crackers meld perfectly, and the chocolate glaze adds a rich finish. It's easy to make and a hit at gatherings. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Eclair Cake
How to blend pudding mix and milk: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk, then use a handheld electric mixer to beat for 2 minutes on medium speed. How to fold in cool whip: Gently incorporate the cool whip into the pudding mixture by using a spatula to fold it in, ensuring it is evenly distributed without deflating the mixture. How to lay graham crackers: Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer to cover the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish, cutting them as needed to fit. How to make glaze: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, heat butter and milk until the butter melts. Then add cocoa, powdered sugar, and vanilla, and mix with a handheld electric mixer until smooth and lump-free. How to use an offset spatula: Use an offset spatula to spread the glaze evenly over the top layer of graham crackers, ensuring a smooth finish.
How To Make No Bake Eclair Cake
This creamy and scrumptious eclair cake swirled with a simple yet delicious chocolate glaze does not require baking, and only needs basic ingredients!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3⅖ozInstant Vanilla Pudding,(2 packages)
- 3½cupswhole milk
- 8ozCool Whip
- 14⅖ozgraham crackers,(2 boxes)
For Glaze:
- 6tbspbutter
- 6tbspwhole milk
- 6tbspcocoa
- 2cupspowdered sugar
- 1tspvanilla
Instructions
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In a medium mixing bowl, blend together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk.
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Using a handheld electric mixer, beat for 2 minutes on medium speed. Gently fold in the Cool Whip.
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In a 9×13-inch dish, lay a single layer of graham crackers, cutting as needed, to cover the entire bottom of the dish.
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Evenly spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
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Lay the second layer of graham crackers, fitting as needed, over the pudding layer.
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Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
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Lay the final layer of graham crackers, fitting as needed, over the pudding.
Glaze:
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In a medium microwave-safe bowl, add the butter and milk, and heat just until the butter melts.
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Add the cocoa, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Using a handheld electric mixer, mix until glaze becomes smooth and there are no longer any lumps.
To Assemble:
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Pour the glaze over the top layer of graham crackers, using an offset spatula to cover the top smoothly.
-
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight.
Nutrition
- Calories: 602.05kcal
- Fat: 24.65g
- Saturated Fat: 12.78g
- Trans Fat: 0.38g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.48g
- Carbohydrates: 89.96g
- Fiber: 3.19g
- Sugar: 59.92g
- Protein: 8.83g
- Cholesterol: 56.24mg
- Sodium: 436.59mg
- Calcium: 209.55mg
- Potassium: 348.70mg
- Iron: 2.51mg
- Vitamin A: 180.53µg
Crucial Technique Tip for Eclair Cake Success
When preparing the glaze, ensure that the butter and milk are heated just enough to melt the butter but not boil the milk. This will help achieve a smooth and glossy consistency without any lumps. Use an offset spatula to spread the glaze evenly over the top layer of graham crackers for a professional finish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Eclair Cake
Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure out the instant vanilla pudding, whole milk, and cool whip before starting. This will streamline the process.
Use pre-made glaze: Opt for a store-bought chocolate glaze to save time on making your own.
Layer efficiently: Arrange the graham crackers in advance to fit your dish, so you can quickly assemble the layers.
Chill quickly: Place the assembled eclair cake in the freezer for a short time before transferring to the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
Substitute Ingredients For Eclair Cake Recipe
instant vanilla pudding - Substitute with instant chocolate pudding: Adds a different flavor profile while maintaining the same texture.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.
cool whip - Substitute with whipped cream: Provides a similar texture and flavor, though it may be slightly richer.
graham crackers - Substitute with digestive biscuits: Offers a similar texture and slightly different flavor that complements the dessert.
butter - Substitute with margarine: A non-dairy alternative that provides a similar consistency and flavor.
whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a good dairy-free option.
cocoa - Substitute with carob powder: Provides a similar color and slightly different flavor, suitable for those avoiding caffeine.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended into powder: Offers the same sweetness and texture when blended to a fine consistency.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Adds a different but complementary flavor to the glaze.
Presenting Your Eclair Cake Beautifully
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the eclair cake into elegant, bite-sized squares. This not only makes it easier to eat but also adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of edible gold flakes. This adds a luxurious touch and visual appeal.
Plate with precision: Place each square on a pristine white plate, ensuring there is ample space around each piece to highlight its elegance. Use a small offset spatula to ensure clean edges.
Add a fresh element: Accompany each serving with a small quenelle of whipped cream and a few fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. This adds color and a fresh contrast to the rich eclair cake.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few crushed graham crackers around the plate for added texture and a nod to the cake's layers. This also enhances the visual appeal.
Highlight the glaze: Ensure the chocolate glaze is smooth and glossy. Use a blowtorch lightly to remove any air bubbles and achieve a mirror-like finish.
Use a stylish serving utensil: Present the eclair cake with a sleek, modern dessert fork or a small gold spoon. This adds a touch of elegance and complements the overall presentation.
Create a focal point: Place a small, edible flower, such as a pansy or a viola, on top of each piece. This creates a beautiful focal point and adds a pop of color.
Balance flavors: Serve with a small shot of espresso or a light dessert wine to balance the sweetness of the eclair cake and cleanse the palate.
Maintain cleanliness: Ensure the plate is spotless before serving. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any smudges or crumbs, presenting a pristine and professional dish.
Essential Tools for Making an Eclair Cake
Medium mixing bowl: Used to blend together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk.
Handheld electric mixer: Essential for beating the pudding mixture to achieve a smooth consistency.
9x13-inch dish: The main dish where you will layer the graham crackers and pudding mixture.
Offset spatula: Useful for spreading the glaze smoothly over the top layer of graham crackers.
Microwave-safe bowl: Needed to melt the butter and milk together for the glaze.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the dish before refrigerating it overnight.
Storing and Freezing Eclair Cake Properly
- Once the eclair cake has been assembled and refrigerated overnight, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.
- If you want to freeze the eclair cake, it's best to do so before adding the chocolate glaze topping. Wrap the assembled cake tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain, and then cover it with a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw the frozen eclair cake, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can prepare and add the chocolate glaze topping just before serving.
- If you have leftover eclair cake with the chocolate glaze already added, you can still freeze it. However, the glaze may lose some of its shine and smoothness after thawing. To minimize this effect, wrap the glazed cake tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
- When storing or freezing the eclair cake, make sure it's placed on a flat surface in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain its shape and prevent the layers from sliding or becoming lopsided.
Random Fact About Eclair Cake
A fun fact about this eclair cake recipe is that it requires no baking, making it a perfect dessert for hot summer days when you want to avoid using the oven. The graham crackers soften overnight in the refrigerator, creating a texture similar to traditional eclairs.
Is Making Eclair Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The eclair cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like instant vanilla pudding, whole milk, cool whip, and graham crackers, the overall expense remains low. The glaze ingredients are also budget-friendly. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is Eclair Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?
The eclair cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its unhealthy status are:
- Instant vanilla pudding mix, which often contains added sugars and artificial flavors
- Whole milk, high in saturated fats and calories
- Cool Whip, a processed whipped topping containing unhealthy fats and added sugars
- Graham crackers, made with refined flour and added sugars
- Glaze ingredients, including butter, whole milk, cocoa, and a significant amount of powdered sugar
The combination of these ingredients results in a dessert that is high in calories, saturated fats, and added sugars, while lacking in essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace instant pudding mix with a homemade vanilla pudding using low-fat milk, cornstarch, and natural vanilla extract
- Use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk
- Substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream using heavy cream and a small amount of sugar, or opt for a lighter whipped topping made with skim milk
- Choose whole wheat graham crackers or a healthier alternative, such as low-fat vanilla wafers or homemade oat-based crackers
- Reduce the amount of butter and powdered sugar in the glaze, and use unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor without added sugars
- Incorporate fresh fruit layers, such as sliced strawberries or bananas, to add natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients
Editor's Thoughts on This Eclair Cake Recipe
This eclair cake recipe is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the creamy richness of vanilla pudding with the light, airy texture of cool whip. The layers of graham crackers add a satisfying crunch, while the chocolate glaze on top provides a decadent finish. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress with its balance of textures and flavors. Just ensure to refrigerate overnight for the best results.
Enhance Your Eclair Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Eclair Cake
Why trust this Eclair Cake Recipe:
This eclair cake recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, combining the classic flavors of vanilla pudding, graham crackers, and a rich chocolate glaze. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The use of cool whip adds a light, creamy texture, while the overnight refrigeration allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, deliciousness, and the satisfaction it brings to anyone who tries it.
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