A refreshing and zesty no-bake dessert, this Lemon Eclair Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. With layers of creamy lemon pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and graham crackers, all topped with a tangy lemon glaze, it’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Bake Convenience: No need for an oven, making it ideal for hot summer days.
Light and Refreshing: The lemon flavor is vibrant and pairs beautifully with the creamy layers.

Make-Ahead Dessert: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Simple Ingredients: Easy-to-find ingredients come together to create a dessert that feels indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

1 box (12 oz) graham crackers
2 cups heavy whipping cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar
1 small box (3.4 oz) instant lemon pudding mix
2 cups milk

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1-2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Directions

Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
In another bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

Assemble the Cake

Arrange a layer of graham crackers on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half of the prepared lemon pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
Add a layer of whipped cream over the pudding.

Repeat the layers: another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining lemon pudding mixture, and top with the rest of the whipped cream.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk for your desired glaze consistency.

Finish the Cake

Drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top layer of whipped cream.

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.

Serve

Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Total Time: 4 hours (including refrigeration)

Variations

Berry Twist: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries between the layers for a fruity boost.
Chocolate Glaze: Replace the lemon glaze with a chocolate drizzle for a decadent twist.
Citrus Medley: Mix lime or orange zest into the glaze for a more complex citrus flavor.

Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix to cut down on calories.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: While not ideal due to the whipped cream, you can freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of heavy whipping cream?

Yes, whip heavy cream with sugar to stiff peaks and use it in place of store-bought whipped cream.

2. What if I don’t have instant lemon pudding mix?

You can substitute vanilla pudding mix and add fresh lemon zest for flavor.

3. Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, halve the recipe for an 8×8-inch dish or adjust ingredient amounts as needed.

4. How do I keep the glaze smooth and lump-free?

Sift the powdered sugar before mixing, and whisk thoroughly for a silky glaze.

5. What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?

Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.

6. Can I add a crust to this cake?

Yes, you can add a layer of crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter for a base crust.

7. Is this dessert overly sweet?

The lemon flavor balances the sweetness, but you can reduce the powdered sugar in the glaze for a less sweet version.

8. Can I use another type of cracker or biscuit?

Yes, vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits can be used as substitutes for graham crackers.

9. How do I make the layers even?

Use an offset spatula to spread the pudding and whipped cream layers evenly.

10. Can I decorate the top of the cake?

Absolutely! Garnish with lemon zest, candied lemon slices, or fresh mint leaves for a decorative touch.

Conclusion

Lemon Eclair Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply treating yourself. Its creamy texture, vibrant lemon flavor, and ease of preparation make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon in every bite!