This Strawberry Éclair Cake is a no-bake dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and a luscious pink frosting. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Bake & Super Easy – No oven required! Just layer, chill, and serve.
Light & Creamy – The vanilla pudding and whipped topping make it extra smooth.
Deliciously Fruity – Fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and freshness.
Perfect for Make-Ahead – Best when chilled overnight, so it’s great for prepping in advance.
Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A fun, colorful dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Layers:

Cold milk
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Whipped topping (or whipped cream)
Cream cheese (softened)
Vanilla extract
Graham crackers
Fresh strawberries (sliced)

For the Pink Frosting:

Powdered sugar
Milk
Vanilla extract
Pink food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Creamy Filling:

In a large bowl, whisk together cold milk and vanilla pudding mix. Let it sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Fold in the pudding mixture, whipped topping, and vanilla extract until well combined.

2. Assemble the Layers:

In a 9×13-inch dish, layer graham crackers to cover the bottom.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
Layer half of the sliced strawberries on top.
Repeat with another layer of graham crackers, the remaining pudding mixture, and the rest of the strawberries.
Top with a final layer of graham crackers.

3. Make the Pink Frosting:

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring until smooth.
Spread the frosting evenly over the top graham cracker layer.

4. Chill & Serve:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until the graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture.
Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 10
Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Twist – Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
Berry Mix – Add blueberries or raspberries for a colorful mix.
Lemon Version – Replace vanilla pudding with lemon pudding for a citrusy twist.
Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans between the layers.
Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free pudding mix.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the pudding texture may change.
Serving: Best served chilled for the creamiest texture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is best when chilled overnight, making it perfect for prepping ahead.

Do I have to use pink food coloring?

No, it’s optional! You can leave it out or use natural beet juice for a pink hue.

What type of strawberries work best?

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Yes! Just whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

How do I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Use firm graham crackers to maintain structure.
Chill for at least 4 hours but not more than 2 days before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Éclair Cake is a no-bake, effortless dessert that delivers layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and graham crackers in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, potluck, or family dessert night, this easy and delicious treat will impress everyone. Try it today and enjoy a sweet, fruity delight!

Strawberry Éclair Cake

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A no-bake dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and a luscious pink frosting. This strawberry éclair cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing treat!

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (+ chilling time)
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treat
Method: No-Bake, Chilled
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together cold milk and vanilla pudding mix.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Fold in the pudding mixture, whipped topping, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Layer the Dessert:
- In a 9×13-inch dish, arrange graham crackers to cover the bottom.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
- Layer half of the sliced strawberries on top.
- Repeat with another layer of graham crackers, the remaining pudding mixture, and the rest of the strawberries.
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
Make the Frosting:
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring until smooth.
Assemble & Chill:
- Spread the frosting evenly over the top graham cracker layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until the crackers soften into a cake-like texture.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy this creamy, fruity delight!

Notes

Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for variety.
Use chocolate graham crackers for a richer twist.
Keep refrigerated and serve chilled for the best texture.