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Eclair Ice Box Cake

Eclair Ice Box Cake
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The Eclair Ice Box Cake is a no-bake, creamy dessert featuring luscious layers of instant chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and graham crackers or ladyfingers. This chilled cake-like treat captures the nostalgic flavor of eclairs with rich chocolate custard, fluffy cream, and an indulgent chocolate syrup drizzle. Perfect for warm days or easy celebrations, it’s quick to prepare, family-friendly, and customizable with a variety of delicious variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Layer

  • 1 package Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix (about 3.4 oz)
  • 2 cups Cold Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional)

Cream Layer

  • 1 container Whipped Topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed (about 8 oz)

Cake Layers

  • 1 package Graham Crackers or Ladyfingers (enough to layer in a 9x13 inch dish)

Toppings

  • Chocolate Syrup for drizzling
  • Optional: Cocoa Powder, Chocolate Shavings, Fresh Berries for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding: Whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk according to package instructions until smooth and thickened. Stir in vanilla extract if using. Set aside to start firming up.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, fold the whipped topping gently into the prepared pudding mixture until fully combined, creating the creamy layers of the cake.
  3. Layer the Cake: In a rectangular 9×13 inch dish, place a single layer of graham crackers or ladyfingers on the bottom. Spread a generous layer of the pudding and whipped cream mixture evenly over the crackers. Repeat layering until all pudding mixture is used, finishing with a layer of whipped topping on top.
  4. Add the Finishing Touch: Drizzle chocolate syrup lavishly over the top layer for that signature eclair effect. Optionally, dust lightly with cocoa powder or garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for elegance.
  5. Chill and Set: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the crackers to soften and soak up the creamy filling, achieving a cake-like texture without baking.

Notes

  • Use fresh instant pudding mix for best flavor and texture.
  • Chill for a minimum of 4 hours, overnight is ideal.
  • Fold whipped topping gently to keep mixture light and airy.
  • Layer evenly to avoid dry or overly soggy spots.
  • Try different crackers or cookies for texture variations.
  • Substitute ladyfingers, vanilla wafers, or chocolate cookies for graham crackers as desired.
  • For dairy-free, use coconut milk and dairy-free whipped toppings.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is possible but may affect texture; thaw overnight refrigerated if frozen.
  • Reheating is not recommended as it spoils texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: eclair ice box cake, no bake dessert, chocolate pudding cake, layered dessert, chilled cake, easy dessert, family friendly dessert

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