Description
Strawberry Éclair Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding blended with whipped topping, and fresh strawberries, topped with chocolate syrup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and several hours of chilling for the perfect texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Layers
- 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers
Pudding Filling
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrup (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes so it fully sets and firms up.
- Mix the Cream: Gently fold the whipped topping, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until the combination is smooth and fully incorporated. This creates a creamy and sweet pudding base.
- Layer the Cake: Using a 9×13-inch baking dish, create the first layer by arranging graham crackers to cover the bottom evenly. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers, smoothing it out to create an even layer. Add another graham cracker layer on top followed by the remaining pudding mixture, spreading it evenly again.
- Top with Strawberries: Place a final layer of graham crackers on top, then evenly arrange the sliced fresh strawberries over the top layer. The strawberries add freshness and a pop of color.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the graham crackers to soften by absorbing moisture from the pudding mixture, resulting in a cake-like texture.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle the top with chocolate syrup as a finishing touch to enhance the dessert’s flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, chill the cake overnight to allow the layers to meld beautifully and for the graham crackers to soften completely.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with other berries or fruit of choice.
- Make sure to thaw the whipped topping before folding it into the pudding mixture for best consistency.
- The chocolate syrup drizzle is optional but highly recommended for added sweetness and a classic éclairs flavor.
