Description
This No-Bake Lemon Eclair Cake is a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, creamy lemon pudding, and a luscious lemon frosting topping. Perfect for summer or any time you want a bright, citrusy treat without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant lemon pudding mix
- 2¾ cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Layering
- 1 box graham crackers
Topping
- 1 (16 oz) container lemon frosting
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for garnish)
- Fresh berries or mint leaves (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Then gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Layer the graham crackers: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay down a layer of graham crackers to fully cover the bottom of the dish.
- Add first pudding layer: Spread half of the prepared lemon pudding mixture evenly over the first graham cracker layer.
- Second graham cracker layer: Place another full layer of graham crackers over the pudding layer.
- Add remaining pudding mixture: Spread the remaining lemon pudding mixture on top of the second graham cracker layer.
- Final graham cracker layer: Finish with a last layer of graham crackers to cover the pudding completely.
- Prepare the frosting: Remove the lemon frosting from its container and microwave for 15–20 seconds to soften it slightly. Stir well.
- Top the cake: Pour the softened lemon frosting evenly over the final graham cracker layer and spread to cover completely.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the pudding to set fully.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with lemon zest, fresh berries, or mint leaves for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping to reduce calories.
- You can substitute the lemon frosting with vanilla or white frosting and add lemon zest to mimic the lemon flavor.
- Make sure to allow enough chilling time for the cake to set properly.
- Use fresh lemon zest sparingly to avoid overpowering the dessert.
- Keeping the dessert refrigerated is essential to maintain texture and freshness.
