Description
This Eclair Cake with Chocolate Ganache is a no-bake dessert that layers creamy vanilla pudding and whipped topping between crispy graham crackers. Topped with a rich, homemade chocolate ganache, this chilled treat is perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare ahead of time.
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
- Prepare the Pudding Layers: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl until the pudding thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the thickened pudding until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the First Layer: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to completely cover the bottom.
- Add First Pudding Layer: Spread half of the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer using a spatula.
- Add Second Graham Cracker Layer: Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding layer, covering it completely.
- Add Remaining Pudding Layer: Spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the second graham cracker layer.
- Add Final Graham Cracker Layer: Place the final layer of graham crackers on top, smoothing it to cover the pudding layer.
- Prepare Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it just begins to simmer—avoid boiling.
- Make Ganache: Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Top Cake with Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the top layer of graham crackers, spreading with a spatula to cover completely.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, slice the cake into servings and serve cold for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat whipped topping and heavy cream to achieve a rich and creamy texture.
- Allowing the cake to chill overnight enhances the softness of the graham crackers and improves the overall flavor.
- This dessert is best served cold straight from the refrigerator to maintain the texture of the pudding layers and ganache.
- Can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make ganache without heavy cream, you can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, but the texture will differ.
