Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, with layers that mimic the texture of a traditional éclair. The combination of chocolate, cherries, and cream is both indulgent and refreshing. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert that gets even better as it chills.

Ingredients

1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 box graham crackers
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Optional: chocolate chips or chocolate syrup for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare Pudding:
In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
Fold in whipped topping until well combined.
Layer Dessert:
In a 9×13-inch dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.
Repeat layers: graham crackers, remaining pudding, remaining cherry pie filling.
Top Layer:
Finish with a final layer of graham crackers if desired.
Drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle with chocolate chips if using.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow layers to soften and flavors to meld.
Serve:
Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Fruit: Use strawberry or blueberry pie filling instead of cherry.
Pudding: Substitute chocolate with vanilla or cheesecake pudding.
Topping: Top with a chocolate ganache layer or crushed cookies.
Nuts: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended as texture may change.
Reheating: Serve cold; no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes, as long as it’s thick and set before layering.

Will the graham crackers get soggy?

They soften to a cake-like texture, which is ideal for this dessert.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made ahead and chilled overnight.

What’s the best dish size?

A standard 9×13-inch dish works best for layering.

Can I add cream cheese?

Yes, mix cream cheese into the pudding for a richer filling.

Can I use fresh cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used if cooked down with sugar into a compote.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe clean between cuts.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Not ideal; texture may change after freezing.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, just stabilize it slightly with powdered sugar or gelatin.

Conclusion

Cherry Chocolate Éclair Cake is a delightful, no-bake dessert that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with cherry-chocolate flavor. Easy to assemble and even better the next day, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Cherry Chocolate Éclair Cake

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Author: Alice
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~8-10 hours
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cherry Chocolate Éclair Cake is an easy, no-bake dessert that layers creamy vanilla pudding, whipped topping, graham crackers, and cherry pie filling, finished with a smooth chocolate glaze. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings, this make-ahead treat delivers rich, indulgent flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 box graham crackers
3 cups whole milk, divided
2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
1½ cups powdered sugar
6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

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Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2½ cups milk and the pudding mix until smooth and thickened (about 2 minutes). Fold in whipped topping until well combined. Set aside.
Assemble the Layers:
- Layer graham crackers at the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
- Spread half the pudding mixture over the crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers.
- Spoon 1½ cans of cherry pie filling over this layer.
- Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the cherry filling.
- Top with one final layer of graham crackers.
Make the Chocolate Glaze:
In a small saucepan, heat the remaining ½ cup milk and butter over medium heat until butter is melted. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.
Top and Chill:
Pour glaze over the top graham cracker layer. Chill for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Serve:
Just before serving, top with remaining cherry pie fillin

Notes

For a richer flavor, substitute vanilla pudding with cheesecake or white chocolate varieties.You can swap graham crackers with chocolate grahams or digestive biscuits.Use fresh whipped cream in place of Cool Whip for a more natural option.