Strawberry Eclair Cake Recipe – No-Bake, Creamy & Irresistibly Fresh

This Strawberry Eclair Cake is a chilled, layered dessert inspired by classic eclairs — but without pastry shells or baking. Instead, graham crackers soften overnight into a tender, cake-like texture while rich pudding and fresh strawberries create a luscious filling.

It’s:

• Completely no-bake
• Perfect for summer
• Make-ahead friendly
• Crowd-pleasing
• Easy enough for beginners
• Elegant enough for celebrations

Let’s build the layers.

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Why This Dessert Works So Well

The secret lies in refrigeration time. As it chills, the graham crackers absorb moisture from the pudding and whipped topping. By the next day, they become soft and cake-like — just like pastry layers in an éclair.

Texture combination:
• Creamy pudding
• Light whipped topping
• Fresh strawberries
• Softened graham layers
• Smooth strawberry glaze

It’s refreshing yet indulgent.

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Ingredients

– Cream Filling

• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold whole milk
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Layers

• 1 box graham crackers
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

– Strawberry Topping

• 1 (16 oz) can strawberry pie filling

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Gently fold whipped topping into pudding until smooth and fluffy.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom. Break pieces as needed to fit.
5. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over graham crackers.
6. Add a layer of sliced strawberries over the pudding.
7. Add another layer of graham crackers.
8. Spread remaining pudding mixture on top.
9. Add another layer of graham crackers.
10. Spread strawberry pie filling evenly over the top layer.
11. Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
12. Slice and serve chilled.

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Flavor & Texture Breakdown

Cream layer: Smooth, vanilla-rich, airy
Strawberries: Fresh, slightly tart sweetness
Graham crackers: Soft, cake-like texture
Strawberry topping: Sweet glossy finish

The longer it chills, the better it becomes.

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Pro Tips for Best Results

• Chill overnight for perfect texture.
• Use full-fat milk for thicker pudding.
• Pat strawberries dry before layering to prevent excess moisture.
• For clean slices, chill fully and wipe knife between cuts.

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Delicious Variations

1. Chocolate Drizzle Version

Drizzle melted chocolate over strawberry topping.

2. Cheesecake Twist

Replace half whipped topping with softened cream cheese.

3. Mixed Berry Upgrade

Add blueberries and raspberries between layers.

4. Lemon Brightness

Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to pudding mixture.

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Perfect Occasions

• Summer BBQs
• Potlucks
• Birthday parties
• Holiday gatherings
• Baby showers
• Easy family desserts

This is one of those desserts people always ask for the recipe.

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Storage

• Refrigerate up to 4 days covered.
• Not ideal for freezing (texture changes).
• Serve cold for best consistency.

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