No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake Recipe

Heavenly No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake Recipe for Dessert Fans

Creamy no-bake peanut butter eclair cake strikes the perfect balance between indulgent dessert and effortless preparation.

Layers of smooth pudding and crisp graham crackers promise a delightful treat without switching on the oven.

Chocolate drizzles cascade across the top, creating a mouthwatering visual that hints at deliciousness beneath.

Cool and rich textures meld together in a dessert that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

Graham crackers absorb the silky pudding mixture, softening into cake-like perfection while chilling.

Minimal ingredients and zero baking time mean you can whip up this stunning dessert in minutes.

Dive into a slice and savor every decadent, cool bite – this recipe is about to become your new favorite summer classic.

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

  • Skip the Oven: Create a delightful dessert without turning on the stove, perfect for hot days or when you want to avoid baking.
  • Layer with Love: Build a stunning no-bake cake with simple ingredients and basic techniques, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Combine classic flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and graham crackers that appeal to both kids and adults at gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations.
  • Stress-Free Preparation: Mix, layer, and chill with minimal cooking skills required, making this recipe a go-to for quick and impressive sweet treats.

What Goes in No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

Pudding Base:
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: A key ingredient that provides the creamy foundation for the dessert.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth and thick pudding mixture.
Peanut Butter Layer:
  • Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the dessert.
Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a light and airy whipped cream layer.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Cake Structure:
  • Graham Crackers: Forms the layered base of the no-bake cake.
Chocolate Topping:
  • Chocolate Chips: Provides a glossy and rich chocolate drizzle.
  • Heavy Cream: Helps melt and create a smooth chocolate topping.
Garnish:
  • Chopped Peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty accent to the dessert.

How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

Step 1: Whip Up Vanilla Pudding

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine instant vanilla pudding mix with milk. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes thick and smooth, making sure no pesky lumps remain.

Step 2: Blend Peanut Butter Magic

Fold creamy peanut butter into the pudding, stirring until you create a luscious, uniform mixture that looks absolutely irresistible.

Step 3: Craft Fluffy Whipped Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until soft, dreamy peaks form that look like clouds of deliciousness.

Step 4: Merge Cream and Pudding

Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter pudding, keeping the mixture light and airy. Be careful not to deflate those beautiful cream peaks.

Step 5: Create First Cracker Layer

Line the bottom of a rectangular dish with graham crackers, creating a solid foundation for your decadent dessert.

Step 6: Spread First Pudding Layer

Dollop and spread half of the peanut butter pudding cream over the graham crackers, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 7: Add Second Cracker Layer

Carefully place another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding cream, creating a delightful sandwich effect.

Step 8: Pour Remaining Pudding

Spread the rest of the peanut butter pudding cream over the crackers, smoothing the top to perfection.

Step 9: Prepare Chocolate Drizzle

Melt chocolate chips with heavy cream in the microwave. Stir until the mixture becomes glossy and smooth.

Step 10: Create Decorative Topping

Drizzle melted chocolate and extra peanut butter over the surface, creating a beautiful marbled pattern that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 11: Add Crunchy Finish

Sprinkle chopped peanuts across the top, adding a delightful crunch and textural contrast.

Step 12: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the eclair cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows all the flavors to mingle and the layers to set perfectly.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. This slight warming will make slicing a breeze and enhance the flavors.

Helpful Tips for No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

  • Whip Cream Perfectly: Use a chilled bowl and beaters to achieve maximum volume and stability for your whipped cream.
  • Prevent Soggy Layers: Chill graham crackers briefly before layering to help them maintain structure and absorb less moisture.
  • Enhance Peanut Butter Flavor: Use high-quality, creamy peanut butter for a richer, more intense taste throughout the dessert.
  • Control Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate slowly and stir frequently to avoid burning and achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Boost Texture Variation: Toast chopped peanuts before sprinkling to intensify their nutty flavor and add extra crunch.

Creative Spins on No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

  • Nutty Banana Bonanza: Replace graham crackers with banana slices and mix mashed ripe bananas into the pudding for an extra fruity kick.
  • Chocolate Lovers' Dream: Swap vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding and add cocoa powder to intensify the chocolate flavor throughout the dessert.
  • Salted Caramel Crunch: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce between layers and top with crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty combination.
  • Tropical Coconut Paradise: Incorporate coconut cream into the pudding mixture and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical-inspired version.

What to Serve with No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

  • Pair Indulgent Coffee Companions: Rich espresso or cold brew coffee cuts through the creamy sweetness, balancing the dessert's decadence with bold, roasted notes.
  • Create Nutty Wine Harmony: Choose a sweet dessert wine like port or moscato, which complements the peanut butter's richness and echoes the nutty undertones.
  • Match Cooling Beverage Contrast: Serve chilled milk or a vanilla milkshake to enhance the cake's creamy texture and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors.
  • Select Textural Garnish Boost: Top with crushed chocolate-covered pretzels or caramel popcorn for an unexpected crunch that elevates the dessert's complexity and adds playful texture.

Storing and Serving No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake Later

  • Transfer the no-bake peanut butter eclair cake to an airtight container with a secure lid, keeping it flat to prevent topping displacement. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and texture.
  • Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring minimal moisture exposure. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut individual slices and store them in separate sealed containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. This method prevents the entire cake from being exposed to air and maintains optimal taste and texture.
  • Always keep the cake chilled to preserve its creamy consistency and prevent the layers from separating.

Your Questions About No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

  • Is this recipe difficult to make?

No, it’s super easy! This no-bake dessert requires minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

  • Can I use different types of crackers?

Graham crackers work best, but you can substitute with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a similar texture and taste.

  • How long will the eclair cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this dessert remains delicious for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor.

  • Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?

No, this recipe contains peanut butter and chopped peanuts, making it unsafe for those with nut allergies.

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No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake Recipe

No-Bake Peanut Butter Eclair Cake Recipe


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4.8 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy “no-bake peanut butter eclair cake” delivers pure dessert magic without heating up kitchens. Layered graham crackers, rich peanut butter pudding, and chocolate glaze promise indulgent comfort you’ll savor with every delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base:

  • 2 packages graham crackers
  • 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter

Cream Layer:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions

  1. Create a smooth mixture by whisking instant vanilla pudding mix with milk until thick and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
  2. Fold creamy peanut butter into the pudding mixture, blending thoroughly to create a rich, uniform consistency.
  3. In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy cream layer.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter pudding mixture, maintaining the delicate texture.
  5. Layer graham crackers in the bottom of a rectangular dish, creating an even base.
  6. Spread half of the peanut butter pudding cream over the graham crackers, ensuring complete coverage.
  7. Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding cream.
  8. Pour the remaining peanut butter pudding cream over the second layer of graham crackers, smoothing the surface.
  9. Prepare the chocolate topping by melting chocolate chips with heavy cream in a microwave, stirring until glossy.
  10. Drizzle melted chocolate and additional peanut butter over the top layer, creating a marbled effect.
  11. Sprinkle chopped peanuts across the surface for added crunch and texture.
  12. Refrigerate the eclair cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to set completely.
  13. Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.

Notes

  • Soften graham crackers by letting them absorb moisture from the creamy pudding layers, creating a cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Customize the dessert by using gluten-free graham crackers or replacing them with chocolate wafers for a different flavor profile.
  • Enhance the peanut butter intensity by adding a thin layer of peanut butter between graham cracker layers for extra richness.
  • Stabilize whipped cream by chilling the bowl and beaters beforehand, ensuring a firmer and more stable cream topping that holds its shape beautifully.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 407
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 165 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 34 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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