Strawberry eclair cake is a dreamy no-bake dessert made with layers of crisp graham crackers, smooth vanilla pudding, and juicy strawberry slices for a fresh, summery flavor. Each bite blends light crunch with creamy sweetness, while a hint of lemon zest adds a bright, refreshing touch. Easy to assemble with just a few simple steps, strawberry eclair cake is the perfect chilled treat for warm days, gatherings, or anytime you want an effortless dessert that feels special.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This strawberry eclair cake
- It’s a no-bake dessert, perfect for hot days!
- Layers of creamy filling and fresh strawberries create a delightful taste.
- Quick and easy to assemble, making it a great choice for busy schedules.
- Impress your friends and family with its beautiful presentation.
- Customizable with your favorite fruits or toppings!
strawberry eclair cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened and clear. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla. Remove from heat, fold in 2 cups strawberries, and let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until set, then fold in whipped topping. This will create a creamy layer for your cake!
- In a 9×13 pan, layer graham crackers to cover the bottom. Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers. Top with half the strawberry filling. Add another layer of graham crackers. Spread the remaining pudding, then the remaining strawberry filling.
- For the chocolate glaze, melt butter in a small saucepan, whisk in cocoa until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in powdered sugar and milk until pourable.
- Pour the glaze over the cake, spreading it evenly. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Enjoy your delicious strawberry eclair cake!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 38g |
| Sugar | 20g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful strawberry eclair cake!
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix – for a creamy texture
- 3 cups cold milk – helps set the pudding
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed – adds lightness and sweetness
- 1 (10 oz) package graham crackers – forms the cake layers
- 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries – for that fresh, fruity flavor
- 1 cup granulated sugar – enhances sweetness
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch – thickener for the glaze
- 1 cup water – mixed in the glaze
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – adds a tangy kick
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – boosts flavor
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – for the chocolate glaze
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – for chocolate flavor
- 1 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the glaze
- 2–3 tablespoons milk – adjust for desired glaze consistency
How to Make Strawberry Eclair Cake
This delightful no-bake strawberry eclair cake is a perfect treat for any occasion! With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, no cooking required, and a chilling time of at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor), you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your friends and family!
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened and clear. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla. Remove from heat, fold in 2 cups strawberries, and let cool.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Mixture
In a bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until set, then fold in whipped topping. This will create a creamy layer for your cake!
Step 3: Layer the Cake
In a 9×13 pan, layer graham crackers to cover the bottom. Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers. Top with half the strawberry filling. Add another layer of graham crackers. Spread the remaining pudding, then the remaining strawberry filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
For the chocolate glaze, melt butter in a small saucepan, whisk in cocoa until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in powdered sugar and milk until pourable.
Step 5: Finish and Chill
Pour the glaze over the cake, spreading it evenly. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Enjoy your delicious strawberry eclair cake!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Extra Time | 240 minutes (Chilling) |
| Total Time | 270 minutes |
| Dietary | No-bake cake |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Chilled and refreshing |
Pro Tips for Making strawberry eclair cake
- Opt for fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Chill the cake overnight for improved texture.
- Use a sharp knife to slice for clean edges.
- Consider adding a layer of whipped cream for extra richness.
How to Serve this strawberry eclair cake
- Top with fresh whipped cream for extra fluffiness.
- Garnish with sliced strawberries for a pop of color.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat on warm days.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent touch.
- Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing Leftovers
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep it in an airtight container for best freshness.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap tightly.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Use a microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds.
- Alternatively, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is strawberry eclair cake?
Strawberry eclair cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, and fresh strawberries. It mimics the flavors of a traditional eclair but is much easier to prepare. This cake is perfect for warm weather and is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste and beautiful presentation.
2. What ingredients are needed to make strawberry eclair cake?
To make strawberry eclair cake, you will need graham crackers, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, whipped topping, fresh strawberries, and a bit of powdered sugar for sweetness. These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy and fruity dessert that everyone will love. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.
3. How do I assemble and layer strawberry eclair cake?
To assemble the strawberry eclair cake, start by mixing the instant pudding with milk until it thickens. In a baking dish, layer graham crackers, followed by a layer of the pudding mixture, and then a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers until you reach the top, finishing with a layer of pudding and strawberries. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for a few hours to set before serving.
4. Can I prepare strawberry eclair cake ahead of time and store it?
Absolutely! Strawberry eclair cake can be prepared a day in advance, making it a great option for parties or gatherings. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and it will be ready to serve when you are. Just be sure to enjoy it within a few days for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
As you dive into this delightful no-bake strawberry eclair cake, remember the joy of simple pleasures! It’s a breeze to whip up and oh-so-rewarding to enjoy. Share it with loved ones or savor it solo—either way, it’s bound to bring a smile. So grab those strawberries and get ready for a sweet adventure!