Description
A no-bake, refreshing dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, creamy cheesecake-flavored pudding, fresh strawberries, and topped with sweet strawberry frosting. This Strawberry and Cream Eclair Cake is perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a light yet indulgent treat that comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Layer
- 3.4 ounces box cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix (e.g., Jello brand)
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 8 ounces thawed whipped topping (store brand)
Layers
- 14.4 ounces box graham crackers
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced (about 3 cups)
Topping
- 16 ounces container of store-bought strawberry frosting (e.g., Pillsbury)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cheesecake-flavored pudding mix and whole milk until it thickens, usually within a couple of minutes. Set this pudding mixture aside.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until evenly combined, creating a creamy filling.
- First graham cracker layer: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom completely.
- First pudding layer: Pour half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- First strawberry layer: Add a generous layer of sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the pudding mixture.
- Second graham cracker layer: Add another single layer of graham crackers on top of the strawberries.
- Second pudding layer: Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the second graham cracker layer, spreading it evenly.
- Second strawberry layer: Add another layer of sliced strawberries on top of the pudding.
- Final graham cracker layer: Top with one last layer of graham crackers.
- Prepare strawberry frosting: Heat the canned strawberry frosting in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to make it pourable. Remove any metal seal from the container before heating to avoid hazards.
- Top with frosting: Pour the warmed strawberry frosting over the top graham cracker layer and spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill the cake: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or heavy-duty aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: When ready, use a sharp knife to cut the cake into 3 by 4 slices. Garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to make slicing cleaner and easier.
- Refrigerate overnight for best texture when graham crackers are fully softened.
- Substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Ensure the metal seal is removed before microwaving strawberry frosting to prevent sparks.
- This dessert is best served cold and eaten within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: strawberry eclair cake, no bake dessert, graham cracker cake, cheesecake pudding dessert, whipped topping dessert
