Introduction

This Strawberries and Cream Eclair Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers creamy cheesecake pudding, fresh strawberries, and crunchy graham crackers. It’s easy to assemble and perfect for warm days or special gatherings.

A dessert square with three layers is shown on a white plate over a white marbled texture. The bottom and middle layers are made of light tan cookie or wafer with visible crumb texture. Between these layers and on top of the middle layer, thick white creamy filling is spread generously, seen oozing slightly out of the sides. Inside the creamy layer, slices of red strawberries are embedded, adding spots of bright red and textured fruit shape. The top layer is a smooth, pastel pink frosting covering the entire surface, with soft swirled texture from spreading. In the background, white bowls filled with red strawberries are softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3.4 ounces box cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix (Jello brand recommended)
1½ cups whole milk
8 ounces thawed whipped topping (store brand works well)
14.4 ounces box of graham crackers
1 pound fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced (about 3 cups)
16 ounces container of store-bought strawberry frosting (Pillsbury suggested)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cheesecake-flavored pudding mix and milk until thickened, usually within a couple of minutes. Set aside.
Step 2: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until well combined.
Step 3: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom completely.
Step 4: Pour half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers and spread it evenly.
Step 5: Layer the sliced fresh strawberries evenly on top of the pudding.
Step 6: Add another layer of graham crackers over the strawberries.
Step 7: Pour the remaining pudding mixture over this second graham cracker layer and spread evenly.
Step 8: Add a second layer of sliced strawberries on top of the pudding.
Step 9: Place one final layer of graham crackers on top.
Step 10: Remove the metal seal from the strawberry frosting container and microwave the frosting for 10-15 seconds until pourable.
Step 11: Pour the warmed frosting over the top graham cracker layer, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
Step 12: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or heavy-duty aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This softens the graham crackers and allows the flavors to meld.
Step 13: When ready to serve, use a sharp knife to slice the cake into 3 by 4 pieces. Garnish with extra fresh strawberries if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping.
If fresh strawberries are not in season, frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) can be a good alternative.
Try swapping the strawberry frosting for a blueberry or raspberry version to change up the fruit flavor.
Use vanilla or chocolate pudding mix for a different twist on the dessert.

Storage

Store the eclair cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The graham crackers soften over time, making the cake more like a creamy pudding. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A glass rectangular dish holds a dessert cut into square pieces, with one square missing from the front left showing its inside layers. The dessert has four layers: the bottom layer is light brown graham crackers, the second and third layers are white creamy filling with pieces of red strawberries embedded, and the top layer is smooth, thick, pastel pink frosting spread evenly. In the background, a white plate stacked with more dessert pieces alongside halved strawberries sits near white cups filled with dark coffee, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, making it the night before allows the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften perfectly.

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

Absolutely. Vanilla or chocolate pudding mixes can be used, but the cheesecake-flavored pudding adds a special tang that pairs well with the strawberries.