No-Bake Lemon Eclair Cake Recipe
Introduction
This no-bake lemon eclair cake is a refreshing and easy dessert perfect for warm days or last-minute gatherings. Layers of graham crackers are combined with a creamy lemon pudding and whipped topping mixture for a light, tangy treat that requires no oven time.
Ingredients
- 1 box graham crackers
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant lemon pudding
- 3 1/2 cups milk
- 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and milk until well combined. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Step 2: Fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Step 4: Add the lemon mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until fully combined.
- Step 5: In a 9×13 inch dish, layer graham crackers evenly on the bottom.
- Step 6: Spread half of the lemon pudding mixture over the graham cracker layer.
- Step 7: Repeat with another layer of graham crackers and the remaining pudding mixture.
- Step 8: Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon juice and zest.
- Garnish with additional whipped topping or thin lemon slices for a decorative touch.
- You can substitute the lemon pudding with lime pudding for a different citrus twist.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-chill before serving for the best texture. This dessert is not suited for freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Yes, fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor and natural brightness in this recipe.
How long can I prepare this dessert in advance?
You can prepare the cake up to one day ahead. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and covered to maintain freshness.
PrintNo-Bake Lemon Eclair Cake Recipe
A refreshing, no-bake lemon eclair cake that layers tangy lemon pudding with graham crackers and whipped topping, creating a light and creamy dessert perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Lemon Pudding Mixture
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 1/2 cups milk
- 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Base
- 1 box graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare Lemon Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to thicken properly.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until evenly combined and smooth.
- Mix Lemon Flavoring: In a separate bowl, combine the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until fully blended.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the lemon juice mixture to the pudding mixture, stirring thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- Layer the Cake: In a 9×13 inch dish, arrange a layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom evenly.
- Spread Pudding Mixture: Spread half of the lemon pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding, then spread the remaining pudding mixture over this second layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours, allowing the graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon juice and zest in the mixture.
- Garnish with additional whipped topping or fresh lemon slices just before serving for an attractive presentation.
Keywords: lemon eclair cake, no-bake dessert, lemon pudding dessert, graham cracker cake, easy summer dessert
