Description
Strawberry Eclair Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla pudding filling, fresh strawberries, and a rich chocolate glaze. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully after chilling.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make the pudding filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy whipping cream, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Layer the filling and strawberries: Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Then add a layer of fresh sliced strawberries on top of the pudding.
- Add the remaining filling: Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the layer of strawberries, smoothing it out evenly for a consistent layer.
- Prepare the chocolate glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is melted and the glaze is smooth.
- Finish the cake: Drizzle the chocolate glaze evenly over the top of the cake. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let it set properly and for the flavors to develop.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the top with additional fresh strawberries for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- For best results, chill the cake overnight to let the layers set well.
- You can substitute fresh raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries for a different twist.
- Use full-fat heavy cream for a richer, creamier filling.
- If you want a firmer crust, press the graham cracker mixture firmly and let it chill slightly before adding the filling.
- Be careful not to over-melt chocolate in the microwave; stir well to prevent burning.
