Description
Refreshing no-bake lemon eclair cake delivers a creamy, zesty dessert that combines graham crackers, lemon pudding, and whipped topping. Cool citrus layers create a simple summer treat you’ll crave after one delightful bite.
Ingredients
- 1 box graham crackers (14.4 oz / 408 g)
- 2 boxes instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 oz / 96 g each)
- 3.5 cups cold milk
- 1 container whipped topping (Cool Whip) (8 oz / 226 g), thawed
- 1 can lemon frosting (16 oz / 454 g)
Instructions
- Foundation Preparation: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch dish with non-stick spray and create a complete graham cracker base layer, ensuring full bottom coverage.
- Pudding Fusion: In a large mixing bowl, whisk instant lemon pudding mix with milk until achieving a thick, luxurious consistency, then gently fold in thawed whipped topping to create a smooth, harmonious mixture.
- Layering Process: Spread half the pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker foundation, add a second cracker layer, then carefully distribute the remaining pudding to create a uniform surface.
- Topping Application: Microwave lemon frosting for 30-40 seconds until pourable, then elegantly drizzle and spread over the final graham cracker layer.
- Chilling and Setting: Wrap the dish securely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8-12 hours, allowing the dessert to meld and graham crackers to absorb the creamy filling.
- Serving Finale: Slice into precise portions and optionally embellish with delicate lemon zest or vibrant fresh berries for an elevated presentation.
Notes
Optimize Cracker Absorption: Ensure graham crackers are completely covered with pudding mixture to guarantee a soft, cake-like texture throughout the dessert.
Prevent Mixture Deflation: Fold whipped topping gently into pudding to maintain its light, airy consistency and avoid removing essential air bubbles.
Maximize Flavor Infusion: Extended refrigeration (8-12 hours) allows graham crackers to fully soak up the lemon pudding, creating a rich, uniform taste and perfect creamy texture.
Alternative Dietary Modifications: Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives, use sugar-free pudding mix, and opt for low-fat whipped topping to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining the dessert’s delightful essence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg