Imagine a dessert so decadent, so creamy, and so irresistible that it transforms an ordinary moment into a gourmet experience. Our Vanilla Eclair Cake with Chocolate Ganache is not just a dessert—it's a culinary journey that promises to transport you straight to the charming patisseries of Paris. With layers of silky vanilla pudding, pillowy whipped cream, and a luxurious chocolate ganache topping, this no-bake wonder will become your new obsession. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a show-stopping dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a professional bakery!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 package graham crackers
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the vanilla pudding mixture by whisking the vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk in a large mixing bowl. Beat for 2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Let the pudding set in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture gently, creating a light and fluffy filling. Ensure the mixture is well combined but not deflated.
- Line the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them to fit if necessary and covering the entire base of the dish.
- Spread half of the pudding-cream mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer, ensuring complete and smooth coverage.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding mixture, creating a second layer.
- Pour the remaining pudding-cream mixture over the second graham cracker layer, spreading it evenly and smoothly.
- For the chocolate ganache, place chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes. Whisk until smooth and glossy, creating a rich ganache.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then pour and spread over the top layer of the pudding mixture, creating an even chocolate coating.
- Refrigerate the eclair cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Tips
- Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure your milk and cream are cold for the best pudding and ganache consistency.
- Whip Cream Carefully: When folding whipped cream into the pudding, use a gentle hand to maintain the light, airy texture.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let the cake sit for 10 minutes before serving to soften the layers slightly and enhance flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This cake actually tastes better when prepared a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
- Ganache Technique: Pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit before whisking to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
- Graham Cracker Tip: If needed, cut graham crackers to fit your baking dish for even layer coverage.
- Refrigeration is Key: A minimum of 4 hours chilling time ensures the perfect texture and set.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 35mg
