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Strawberry Eclair Cake Recipe

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4.1 from 5 reviews

Strawberry Eclair Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring creamy cheesecake-flavored pudding, fluffy whipped topping, fresh strawberries, graham crackers, and a luscious strawberry frosting glaze. This refreshing treat requires minimal prep time and no baking, making it perfect for warm days or quick gatherings.

Ingredients

Pudding Layer

  • 3.4 ounces cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 8 ounces thawed whipped topping

Layers

  • 14.4 ounces graham crackers
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries (washed, hulled, and sliced)

Topping

  • 16 ounces store-bought strawberry frosting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cheesecake-flavored pudding mix and whole milk until the mixture thickens, which typically takes a couple of minutes. Set it aside.
  2. Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture to create a light, creamy filling.
  3. First graham cracker layer: Cover the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers.
  4. First pudding layer: Pour half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
  5. First strawberry layer: Arrange a layer of sliced fresh strawberries on top of the pudding layer.
  6. Second graham cracker layer: Place another layer of graham crackers over the strawberries, making sure to cover the fruit completely.
  7. Second pudding layer: Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the second graham cracker layer and spread evenly.
  8. Second strawberry layer: Top the pudding layer with another layer of sliced fresh strawberries.
  9. Final graham cracker layer: Add one final layer of graham crackers on top.
  10. Warm the strawberry frosting: Heat the store-bought strawberry frosting in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until it becomes pourable. Ensure the metal seal is removed before microwaving.
  11. Apply frosting: Pour the warm strawberry frosting over the top graham cracker layer and spread evenly to cover the entire surface of the cake.
  12. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or heavy-duty aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld.
  13. Serve: When ready, use a sharp knife to slice the cake into 12 servings. Optionally, garnish with extra fresh strawberries for a decorative touch.

Notes

  • Do not skip the chilling step as it softens the graham crackers and enhances flavor melding.
  • Use full-fat whole milk for best pudding texture and taste.
  • For a firmer texture, refrigerate overnight instead of 4 hours.
  • Ensure the metal seal is fully removed from the frosting can before microwaving to avoid hazards.
  • Fresh strawberries should be ripe and sweet for best flavor contrast with the creamy layers.