Chocolate Éclair Dessert

Creamy, cool, and completely no-bake, chocolate éclair dessert captures the flavor of a classic French éclair in a simple, layered form. With smooth vanilla pudding, layers of graham crackers, and a rich chocolate topping, it’s a crowd-favorite—perfect for potlucks, cookouts, and holiday tables alike. This easy dessert delivers bakery-level taste without turning on the oven.

Origin of Chocolate Éclair Dessert

The chocolate éclair dessert rose to popularity through church cookbooks and community potlucks, where quick, satisfying recipes became the gold standard. It takes cues from the traditional French éclair—pastry filled with custard and topped with ganache—but uses everyday pantry staples like graham crackers and instant pudding for a no-fuss, no-bake spin.

What I Love About This Recipe

You can prep it ahead of time, and the graham crackers soften overnight into a cake-like texture. It’s chilled, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for gatherings. For best results, try using homemade chocolate ganache and real vanilla pudding for richer flavor and texture.

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Chocolate Éclair Dessert

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

This no-bake Chocolate Éclair Dessert is a creamy, dreamy treat that layers graham crackers, silky vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, all finished with a rich chocolate frosting. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for potlucks, parties, or when you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups cold milk

• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

• 1 box graham crackers

• 1 (16 oz) can chocolate frosting

Directions

• In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
• Fold in the whipped topping gently until smooth and combined.
• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
• Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers.
• Add another layer of graham crackers.
• Spread the remaining pudding mixture on top.
• Finish with a final layer of graham crackers.
• Remove lid and foil seal from the frosting can. Microwave frosting about 20–30 seconds until pourable but not hot.
• Pour frosting over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly.
• Cover the dish and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to let the graham crackers soften.
• Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

• For richer flavor, use homemade chocolate ganache instead of canned frosting.
• You can substitute chocolate pudding for vanilla to make a double-chocolate version.
• Store leftovers covered in the fridge up to 4 days.