Can I use homemade frosting instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! My quick hack is mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 4 oz softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup strawberry jam. It's less sweet than the canned stuff and has that lovely fresh berry flavor. Just microwave it slightly before drizzling over the top layer.

How far ahead can I make this Strawberry Eclair Cake?

That's the beauty of it, you can assemble it up to 24 hours before serving! In fact, I think it tastes better after an overnight chill when the graham crackers have softened perfectly. Just add fresh strawberry garnishes right before serving.

Will frozen strawberries work in this recipe?

Yes, but thaw and drain them really well first - nobody wants a soggy cake! Pat them dry with paper towels. Fresh berries give the best texture though, so I only use frozen when strawberries aren't in season.

Can I use different pudding flavors?

Definitely! Vanilla pudding works great, and I've even done white chocolate pudding for extra decadence. The cheesecake flavor is my favorite because it adds that extra tang that balances the sweetness.

Irresistible Strawberry Eclair Cake Recipe in 4 Easy Steps

Description

This no-bake Strawberry Eclair Cake is a creamy, fruity, and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of graham crackers, cheesecake pudding, fresh strawberries, and a silky strawberry frosting topping, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients

Scale

1 (3.4 oz) box cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix (Jello brand used)
1 1/2 cups whole milk
8 oz thawed whipped topping
1 (14.4 oz) box graham crackers
1 lb fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced (about 3 cups)
1 (16 oz) container strawberry frosting (Pillsbury brand used)

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cheesecake pudding mix and milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
Layer the Dessert: In a 9×13-inch dish, layer graham crackers to cover the bottom. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the crackers. Add a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers (graham crackers, remaining pudding, more strawberries), finishing with a final layer of graham crackers on top.
Add the Strawberry Frosting: Microwave the strawberry frosting (without the metal seal) for 10–15 seconds, just until pourable. Pour over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the layers soften and the flavors blend. Slice into squares before serving, and garnish with extra strawberries if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
Swap in chocolate frosting for a fun twist!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: strawberry eclair cake, no bake dessert, layered dessert, graham cracker dessert, strawberry pudding cake