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Eclair Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Eclair Cake with Chocolate Ganache is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, crunchy graham crackers, and a rich homemade chocolate ganache. Perfectly chilled for enhanced flavors and texture, this cake offers a delightful combination of smooth pudding layers and silky chocolate topping in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe.


Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Layers

  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 box graham crackers

Chocolate Ganache

  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pudding Layers: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl until the mixture thickens, creating a smooth pudding base.
  2. Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined, resulting in a light, creamy filling.
  3. Assemble the Cake – First Layer: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of graham crackers to completely cover the bottom surface.
  4. Add Pudding Mixture: Spread half of the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer, smoothing it out carefully.
  5. Second Graham Cracker Layer: Place another layer of graham crackers over the pudding mixture, covering it fully.
  6. Second Pudding Layer: Spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the second graham cracker layer.
  7. Top Graham Cracker Layer: Add a final layer of graham crackers on top to complete the layered cake structure.
  8. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat promptly to avoid boiling.
  9. Combine Cream and Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften.
  10. Stir Ganache Smooth: Stir the cream and chocolate mixture until smooth and glossy, forming a rich ganache.
  11. Top the Cake with Ganache: Pour and spread the ganache evenly over the final graham cracker layer, covering the cake completely.
  12. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
  13. Serve: Slice the chilled cake into servings and enjoy this creamy, chocolate-topped delight.

Notes

  • For best results, use cold milk and ensure the whipped topping is completely thawed before folding into the pudding.
  • Use a spatula to gently fold the whipped topping to maintain the airy texture of the pudding layers.
  • The graham crackers will soften as the cake chills, creating a texture similar to eclairs.
  • The ganache can be made ahead and refrigerated; rewarm gently before spreading if it thickens.
  • Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.