No-Bake Lemon Eclair Cake

Lemon Éclair Cake is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that delivers bright citrus flavor layered with creamy pudding and soft graham crackers. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for potlucks, holidays, or warm-weather gatherings when turning on the oven isn’t an option.

This chilled dessert sets beautifully in the fridge, creating tender cake-like layers that slice clean and look stunning just like the picture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Completely no-bake
• Bright, fresh lemon flavor
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Feeds a crowd easily
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Soft, cake-like texture after chilling

Equipment

• Hand Mixer
• Mixing Bowls
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients

• 1 (14.4-oz) box graham crackers
• 2 (3.4-oz) boxes instant lemon pudding
• 3½ cups milk
• 1 (8-oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
• 1 (16-oz) can lemon frosting

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, add both boxes of instant lemon pudding. Pour in the milk and whisk for 2 minutes until thick and smooth.

Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding mixture until fully combined. The mixture should be light, fluffy, and evenly blended.

Step 3: Layer the Graham Crackers

Arrange a single layer of graham crackers across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, breaking crackers as needed to fit snugly.

Step 4: Add the Pudding Layer

Spread half of the lemon pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers using a spatula.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Smooth the top evenly.

Step 6: Final Graham Cracker Layer

Top with one final layer of graham crackers, covering the entire surface.

Step 7: Warm and Spread the Frosting

Remove the lid and foil seal from the lemon frosting. Microwave uncovered for 20–30 seconds until pourable. Stir well.

Pour the frosting over the top graham cracker layer and spread evenly to the edges.

Step 8: Chill to Set

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften into cake-like layers.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Chill overnight for the best texture
• Use an offset spatula for clean frosting coverage
• Add lemon zest to the pudding for extra citrus punch
• Garnish with lemon slices or zest before serving

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator
• Pair with iced tea or lemonade
• Top individual slices with whipped cream or fresh berries

Storage / Reheating

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Do not freeze (texture will change)
• No reheating required—serve cold

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is best made the day before serving.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, but stabilize it well for best results.

Why is my cake runny?
It likely needs more chilling time to fully set.

Conclusion

This Lemon Éclair Cake is the ultimate easy, no-bake dessert cool, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor. With soft cake-like layers and a glossy lemon topping, it’s guaranteed to impress while keeping prep effortless. A must-make recipe for lemon lovers and busy bakers alike.

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