This Easy Eclair Cake is a delightful no-fuss dessert that delivers the classic flavors of an eclair in a simple, layered form. Imagine a light, airy crust topped with a creamy vanilla filling and a smooth layer of Cool Whip, all drizzled with rich chocolate syrup. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute desserts.
- Classic Eclair Flavors: This recipe captures the essence of traditional eclairs with its creamy vanilla filling and chocolate topping.
- No-Fuss Dessert: No need for delicate pastry skills; this cake uses a simple crust and instant pudding for easy preparation.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This cake is always a hit with guests, offering a light and satisfying dessert option.
Ingredients
FOR THE CRUST:
- Water: Provides moisture for the crust.
- Butter (melted): Adds richness and flavor to the crust.
- Flour: Forms the base of the crust.
- Large Eggs: Acts as a binder and adds structure to the crust.
FOR THE FILLING:
- Cream Cheese (softened): Provides a creamy, tangy base for the filling.
- Vanilla Instant Pudding (small boxes): Adds vanilla flavor and thickens the filling.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Contributes to a creamy, rich texture.
- Coffee-mate Italian Sweet Cream Creamer: Adds a sweet, creamy flavor.
TOPPING:
- Cool Whip (8-ounce container): Provides a light, airy topping.
- Chocolate Syrup: Adds a rich, sweet garnish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter in water and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the flour.
- Add one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend well until all eggs are incorporated.
- Spread the dough mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom and sides.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Do not overbake.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely. The crust will settle as it cools.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Place the softened cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with the heavy whipping cream and creamer for 2-3 minutes.
- Refrigerate the pudding mixture until it thickens.
- Once thickened, slowly add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Refrigerate the filling until completely chilled.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- When the crust has cooled completely, pour the chilled filling over the crust.
- Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the filling.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Refrigerate the cake to chill before serving.
Step 4: Serve
Cut into slices and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Cooling the Crust: Ensure the crust is completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from melting.
- Thickening the Pudding: Whisk the pudding mixture until it starts to thicken before refrigerating for best results.
- Chilling Time: Allow the cake to chill thoroughly before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Use a squeeze bottle for precise chocolate drizzle patterns.
How to Serve
- Dessert: Serve as a delightful dessert for any occasion.
- Potlucks: Perfect for sharing at potlucks and gatherings.
- Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dessert for family dinners and celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover eclair cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Yes, you can use other flavors of instant pudding, such as chocolate or pistachio.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream, but it may not hold its shape as well as Cool Whip.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, you can add other toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or fruit.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
PrintEasy Eclair Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking, No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Eclair Cake is a no-fuss dessert that delivers the classic flavors of an eclair in a simple, layered cake format. A light and airy crust is topped with a creamy pudding filling and finished with Cool Whip and chocolate syrup. It’s a perfect treat for potlucks, parties, or any occasion.
Ingredients
FOR THE CRUST:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup flour
- 4 large eggs
FOR THE FILLING:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 small boxes vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup Coffee-mate Italian Sweet Cream creamer
TOPPING:
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Crust:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter in water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the flour.
- Add one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend well.
- Spread the dough mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Prepare Filling:
- Place the softened cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla instant pudding mix with the heavy whipping cream and creamer for 2-3 minutes.
- Refrigerate the pudding mixture until thick.
- Once thickened, slowly add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Place filling into refrigerator to chill.
- Assemble Cake:
- Once the crust has cooled completely, pour the filling over the crust.
- Spread the thawed Cool Whip over the filling.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Refrigerate the cake to chill before serving.
- Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Do not overbake the crust.
- Ensure the crust is completely cooled before adding the filling.
- Adjust the amount of chocolate syrup to your preference.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, you can use chocolate pudding mix instead of vanilla.
- For a different flavor profile, use different flavored creamers.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg