01/23/2026
No-Bake Strawberry Éclair Cake
This dessert layers a fluffy strawberry-cheesecake cream, fresh berries, and graham crackers, all topped with a sweet strawberry glaze.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (overnight best)
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients:
1 (3.4 oz) box instant cheesecake-flavored pudding mix (or vanilla)
1 ½ cups cold whole milk
1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 (14.4 oz) box honey graham crackers
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (reserve 3-4 for garnish)
1 (16 oz) container prepared strawberry frosting
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk vigorously for a full 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and very thick. Immediately place the bowl in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help it set up further and chill completely.
Fold in Whipped Topping: Remove the chilled pudding from the fridge. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the entire container of thawed whipped topping until no white streaks remain. Be careful to maintain as much air as possible.
Assemble the First Layers: In the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish, create a single, even layer of whole graham crackers. You may need to break some to fit and completely cover the bottom.
Add Cream & Berries: Spread half of the creamy pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer. Arrange half of your sliced strawberries in a single layer over the cream.
Repeat the Layers: Place another complete layer of graham crackers over the strawberries. Spread the remaining half of the pudding mixture over this. Top with the remaining sliced strawberries.
Final Cracker Layer: Gently place one last layer of graham crackers on top of the strawberries.
Apply the "Glaze": Place your container of strawberry frosting in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly soften (or leave at room temp). Stir until smooth. Using an offset spatula or knife, spread the frosting evenly over the final layer of graham crackers, creating a smooth, beautiful finish.
Chill Thoroughly: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight (8-12 hours). This critical step allows the graham crackers to soften into a cake-like texture.
Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top with additional fresh, whole, or halved strawberries. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
