Easy Homemade Strawberry Eclair Cake

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Dessert

Description

This Strawberry Eclair Cake is a no-bake, creamy, and refreshing dessert that combines layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and fresh strawberries, all topped with a luscious whipped cream frosting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet family treat!

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Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 (14.4 oz) box graham crackers

• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups cold milk (whole or 2%)

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

• 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

• Additional strawberry slices

• Graham cracker crumbs

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened (about 2 minutes).

2. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Layer the Graham Crackers & Pudding

1. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a single layer of graham crackers (breaking some as needed to fit).

2. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.

3. Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the pudding.

4. Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture.

5. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the graham crackers to soften into a cake-like texture.

2. Before serving, garnish with additional strawberry slices and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.

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Tips & Variations

• Make it Chocolate: Substitute one vanilla pudding box with chocolate pudding for a chocolate-strawberry twist.

• Lighter Option: Use sugar-free pudding mix and low-fat whipped topping.

• Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.

• Quick Version: Use store-bought whipped cream instead of making it from scratch.

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Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Eclair Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert that requires no baking and is always a hit! The layers of creamy pudding, fresh strawberries, and soft graham crackers make every bite irresistible. Perfect for any occasion—try it today and watch it disappear!