If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and totally irresistible, you’ve just found your new favorite: Strawberry Eclair Cake. This no-bake beauty layers graham crackers, sweet vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and juicy strawberries into a chilled cake that tastes just like a strawberry eclair—but without the baking hassle.
It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, holidays, or those “I need dessert now” kind of days. The best part? You can make it ahead and let your fridge do all the work.
Table of Contents
🍰 Why You’ll Fall in Love with Strawberry Eclair Cake
- No oven required—just layer and chill
- Refreshingly light and fruity
- Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Feeds a crowd with minimal effort
- A fun twist on the classic eclair cake
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need for your Strawberry Eclair Cake, broken down in a simple table for easy prep:
Cake Layers
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Graham crackers | 1 box (about 18 crackers) |
| Instant vanilla pudding | 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) |
| Cold milk | 3 cups |
| Whipped topping (Cool Whip) | 12 oz, thawed |
| Fresh strawberries | 2 cups, sliced thin |
Strawberry Glaze (Optional, but amazing)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | 1 cup, mashed |
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Water | ÂĽ cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
🥄 How to Make Strawberry Eclair Cake
Step 1: Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Fold in the Cool Whip gently until fully combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Layer It Up
- In a 9×13 baking dish, add a layer of graham crackers, breaking as needed to fit.
- Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers.
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries.
- Repeat: another layer of graham crackers, the remaining pudding, and more strawberries.
Step 3: Make the Glaze (Optional but elevates the flavor!)
- Combine mashed strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until thickened (3–5 minutes).
- Let cool completely, then drizzle over the top of the cake.
Step 4: Chill and Set
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best texture.
- The longer it chills, the softer the graham crackers become—creating that cake-like magic.
🍓 Pro Tip: Add fresh whole strawberries on top just before serving for a gorgeous presentation.
🍽 Serving Ideas & Variations
You can dress up this Strawberry Eclair Cake however you like. Here are a few ideas:
✨ Deluxe Topping Bar
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed graham crackers
- Whipped cream rosettes
- Drizzle of chocolate or white chocolate sauce
🍫 Strawberry-Chocolate Eclair Cake
- Use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate before chilling
🍋 Strawberry Lemon Eclair Cake
- Use lemon pudding for a bright, zesty flavor
- Top with candied lemon peel for flair
❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Make-Ahead: Prepare 1 day in advance for best texture
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month (without fresh strawberries on top). Thaw in the fridge before serving
đź“Š Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–320 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 25g |
âť“ FAQ: Strawberry Eclair Cake
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid a watery dessert. Fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Use about 3 cups of freshly whipped cream, sweetened to taste.
Do I have to use the glaze?
Nope! The cake is delicious without it, but the strawberry glaze adds a rich, fruity layer that really boosts the flavor.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free version.
❤️ Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite No-Bake Dessert
This Strawberry Eclair Cake hits all the right notes: creamy, fruity, comforting, and effortless. Whether it’s for a summer BBQ, a holiday dinner, or a simple weekday indulgence, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. And with no baking required, it’s the easiest way to impress without stress.