Description

Craving a dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and effortless to make? What if you could create a no-bake treat that combines the flavors of a classic éclair with fresh strawberries in just a few minutes? Say hello to Strawberry Eclair Cake! This delightful layered dessert features graham crackers, cheesecake-flavored pudding, fresh strawberries, and a luscious strawberry frosting, all chilled to perfection.

Ingredients

Cheesecake-Flavored Instant Pudding Mix (3.4 oz): Creates a creamy, tangy base with a rich cheesecake flavor.
Whole Milk (1½ cups): Activates the pudding mix for a smooth, thick consistency.
Thawed Whipped Topping (8 oz, like Cool Whip): Adds lightness and fluffiness to the pudding layer.
Graham Crackers (14.4 oz): Form the structural layers, softening into a cake-like texture when chilled.
Fresh Strawberries (1 lb, washed, hulled, and sliced): Provide a juicy, sweet-tart fruit layer.
Store-Bought Strawberry Frosting (16 oz): Adds a sweet, pourable topping with vibrant strawberry flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Pudding Mix: Use vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding mix if cheesecake flavor is unavailable, adding ½ tsp lemon zest for tang.
Milk: Substitute with 2% milk, non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or soy), or heavy cream for a richer texture.
Whipped Topping: Replace with homemade whipped cream (1 cup heavy cream, whipped with 2 tbsp sugar) or coconut whipped topping for a dairy-free option.
Graham Crackers: Use vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or gluten-free graham crackers for dietary needs.
Strawberries: Swap with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries, or use frozen strawberries (thawed and drained).
Strawberry Frosting: Substitute with homemade strawberry glaze (1 cup mashed strawberries, ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, cooked until thick) or chocolate frosting for a twist.
Add-Ins: Sprinkle ½ cup white chocolate chips or chopped nuts between layers for extra texture.
Vegan Option: Use vegan pudding mix, non-dairy milk, vegan whipped topping, vegan graham crackers, and a vegan strawberry frosting or glaze.

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Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3.4 oz cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix and 1½ cups whole milk until thickened, about 1–2 minutes.
- Gently fold in 8 oz thawed whipped topping with a spatula until fully combined and smooth. Set aside.
- Tip: Whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps, and fold gently to maintain the whipped topping’s fluffiness.
Assemble the First Layer:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers (about one-third of the 14.4 oz package) to cover the bottom, breaking crackers as needed to fit.
- Tip: Lay crackers tightly to minimize gaps, ensuring a sturdy base.
Add Pudding and Strawberries:
- Pour half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, spreading evenly with a spatula to cover completely.
- Arrange a layer of sliced fresh strawberries (about half of the 1 lb) over the pudding, distributing evenly.
- Tip: Slice strawberries uniformly for a neat appearance, and pat dry if wet to prevent excess moisture.
Add the Second Layer:
- Place another layer of graham crackers over the strawberries, using about one-third of the package.
- Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the crackers, spreading evenly.
- Add another layer of sliced strawberries, using the remaining half of the berries.
- Tip: Press the graham crackers gently to ensure they adhere to the pudding layer.
Add the Final Layer:
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers, using the remaining crackers to cover the strawberries completely.
- Tip: Ensure full coverage to create a smooth surface for the frosting.
Apply the Strawberry Frosting:
- Remove the metal seal from the 16 oz container of store-bought strawberry frosting. Microwave the frosting in a microwave-safe bowl for 10–15 seconds until pourable, stirring halfway through.
- Pour the warm frosting over the top layer of graham crackers, spreading evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Tip: Work quickly to spread the frosting before it cools, and tilt the pan slightly for even coverage.
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or heavy-duty aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to soften the graham crackers and meld the flavors.
- When ready to serve, use a sharp knife to slice into 12 even pieces. Optionally garnish with extra fresh strawberries or whipped topping swirls.
- Tip: Run the knife under hot water and wipe clean between cuts for neat, clean slices.