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Strawberries and Cream Eclair Cake Recipe


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4.3 from 30 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

A delightful and easy-to-make no-bake dessert featuring layers of cheesecake-flavored pudding, whipped topping, fresh strawberries, graham crackers, and creamy strawberry frosting. Perfect for gatherings and requiring minimal prep time with a deliciously creamy and fruity finish after chilling.


Ingredients

Pudding Mixture

  • 3.4 ounces box cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix (Jello brand recommended)
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 8 ounces thawed whipped topping (store brand suggested)

Layers

  • 14.4 ounces box of graham crackers
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced (about 3 cups)

Frosting

  • 16 ounces container of store-bought strawberry frosting (Pillsbury brand suggested)


Instructions

  1. Prepare pudding mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cheesecake-flavored pudding mix and whole milk until it thickens, usually within a couple of minutes. Set aside to allow it to stabilize.
  2. Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture to create a smooth and creamy filling.
  3. First graham cracker layer: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, lay a single layer of graham crackers covering the bottom evenly to form the first base layer.
  4. First pudding layer: Pour half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
  5. First strawberry layer: Arrange a layer of sliced fresh strawberries on top of the pudding layer, distributing them evenly.
  6. Second graham cracker layer: Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the strawberries, covering completely.
  7. Second pudding layer: Pour the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the second layer of graham crackers.
  8. Second strawberry layer: Arrange the remaining sliced strawberries on top of the pudding mixture evenly.
  9. Third graham cracker layer: Place one more layer of graham crackers on top to complete the layering.
  10. Heat frosting: Remove any metal seal from the frosting container and heat the strawberry frosting in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it pourable.
  11. Top with frosting: Pour the warmed strawberry frosting over the top graham cracker layer and spread evenly to cover the entire surface.
  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 the flavors to meld beautifully.
  13. Serve: When ready, use a sharp knife to slice the cake into 12 servings (3 slices by 4 slices). Optionally, garnish each serving with extra fresh strawberries for a fresh touch.

Notes

  • Ensure the pudding mix thickens properly before folding in the whipped topping for best texture.
  • Heating the frosting is essential for easy spreading over the final layer.
  • Chilling time is crucial to soften the graham crackers and enhance flavor melding.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best taste and visual appeal.
  • Can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American