If you’re on the hunt for a showstopper dessert that requires minimal effort but never fails to thrill a crowd, Strawberry Eclair Cake will absolutely make your heart flutter. This no-bake wonder layers graham crackers, luscious vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and heaps of fresh strawberries for a treat that’s as gorgeous as it is crave-worthy. It comes together in minutes and chills into pure, sliceable bliss—a sweet hit for every potluck, picnic, or “just because” occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Strawberry Eclair Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Strawberry Eclair Cake is just how simple and accessible the ingredients are. Each one brings something special to the table, whether it’s flavor, creaminess, or satisfying layers—let’s break it down!

Refrigerated graham cracker sheets (12): These classic crackers become divinely soft and cake-like after chilling, providing the perfect foundation and layers for every forkful.
Instant vanilla pudding mix (2 packets, 3.4 oz each): Vanilla pudding brings dreamy creaminess and helps hold those beautiful layers together while adding a subtle hint of warmth.
Cold milk (4 cups): Essential for activating and setting the pudding, it keeps everything super silky and perfectly thick.
Whipped topping (16 oz, thawed): Light, sweet, and cloud-like, this tops off your Strawberry Eclair Cake with airy delight and also enriches the pudding filling.
Fresh strawberries (4 cups, sliced): The crown jewels! Their bright color and juicy sweetness infuse each bite with freshness and stunning visual appeal.
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): Just a sprinkle on top creates a bakery-style finish and an extra whisper of sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Eclair Cake

Step 1: Whisk Up the Pudding

In a large bowl, whisk together your instant vanilla pudding mix with all that cold milk. It only takes about two minutes of good whisking before you’ll have a smooth, thickened pudding—no stove, no fuss!

Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Next, gently fold in half of your whipped topping straight into the pudding bowl. This boosts creaminess and makes the whole mixture even more velvety and light. Try not to overmix to keep things extra fluffy.

Step 3: Lay Down the Graham Crackers

Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and create your first layer using graham cracker sheets. Cover every nook and cranny because these will soak up all that creamy goodness as the cake chills.

Step 4: Add Pudding and Strawberries

Spread half of your pudding mixture right over the graham crackers, smoothing it out evenly. Then, cover with a generous layer of sliced strawberries—don’t be shy, the more berries, the better!

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Ready for round two? Add another full layer of graham crackers, followed by the rest of the pudding mixture and more juicy strawberries. You’re building irresistible, colorful layers of flavor.

Step 6: Top and Chill

Finish by spreading the remaining whipped topping over everything, creating a lofty, creamy “frosting.” Cover with plastic wrap and pop the dish into the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the graham crackers soften and everything meld.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Just before serving, dust the top with a little powdered sugar for an elegant, sweet finish. Slice, serve, and watch your Strawberry Eclair Cake disappear!

How to Serve Strawberry Eclair Cake

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way in making your Strawberry Eclair Cake feel extra special. Try adding a few whole or halved strawberries on top, a sprig of fresh mint, or that classic light snowfall of powdered sugar. A drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce can also take this dessert right over the top.

Side Dishes

Since Strawberry Eclair Cake is so refreshing and light, it pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or tea. You could also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert plate, or serve alongside a fruit salad for a bright and colorful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try assembling your Strawberry Eclair Cake in mini parfait glasses or jars for individual servings. Another idea is to add a layer of sliced bananas or blueberries for a fun twist. You can even get playful by cutting the cake into squares and plating with a tiny dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry fan for each guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Just re-cover your baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. The Strawberry Eclair Cake will stay delicious in the fridge for up to three days, and it actually gets even better as the flavors have more time to mingle.

Freezing

While Strawberry Eclair Cake isn’t the best candidate for the freezer (the texture of the whipped topping and strawberries can change after thawing), you can freeze individual, well-wrapped portions if needed. Just be aware that the berries may release liquid as they thaw, which can make the cake a bit softer.

Reheating

No need to reheat this beauty! Strawberry Eclair Cake is meant to be served chilled straight from the refrigerator, which makes it so wonderfully fuss-free and ideal for hot days or effortless entertaining.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Eclair Cake?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them really well before layering, so the cake doesn’t get too watery. Frozen berries can be a great shortcut and still bring plenty of fresh flavor to every bite.

How far in advance can I make this dessert?

Strawberry Eclair Cake is actually better when made ahead! Prep it the night before or at least four hours in advance. The extra time lets the graham crackers soften perfectly, making for easy slicing and the best texture.

Can I swap the pudding flavor?

Definitely! While vanilla is classic, French vanilla, cheesecake, or even white chocolate pudding would all taste amazing. Feel free to mix and match depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry.

Is there a lighter version of Strawberry Eclair Cake?

If you’re looking to lighten things up, choose sugar-free pudding mix, reduced-fat graham crackers, and light or fat-free whipped topping. You can easily tweak the ingredients to fit your nutritional needs while still enjoying plenty of flavor.

Can I add other fruits?

Of course! While strawberries are truly the star, feel free to add layers of sliced bananas, blueberries, or even peaches for a delicious spin. The cake is super adaptable to whatever fruit you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This is the sort of dessert that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe before their very first bite is gone. Trust me—once you try Strawberry Eclair Cake, it’ll be your go-to for every gathering, celebration, or last-minute craving. Give it a whirl and let the rave reviews roll in!

Strawberry Eclair Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this easy-to-make Strawberry Eclair Cake. Layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and whipped topping come together to create a luscious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Layer:

12 sheets refrigerated graham crackers

Pudding Layer:

2 packets (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
4 cups cold milk

Whipped Topping Layer:

16 oz whipped topping, thawed

Strawberry Layer:

4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Powdered sugar, optional, for dusting

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Instructions

Prepare Pudding Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth.
Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer graham crackers to cover the bottom. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers. Add a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat layering with remaining graham crackers, pudding mixture, and strawberries.
Chill and Serve: Top with remaining whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the graham crackers to soften. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired.