Lightened Chocolate Eclair Delight
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Lightened Chocolate Eclair Delight, a delightful dessert that transforms the classic eclair into a guilt-free treat. This refreshing dessert features layers of rich, velvety vanilla pudding mixed with airy Cool Whip, all sandwiched between crispy graham crackers and topped with a luscious chocolate frosting. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is not only simple to make but also packs a delightful creamy texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Just be sure to refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the crackers to soften to perfection. Your taste buds will thank you!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
2 packages (1 ounce each) (Dry mix)
Skim milk
4 cups (For preparing the pudding)
Cool Whip Lite
1 container (8 ounces) (Thawed)
Graham crackers
1 box (16 ounces) (Whole)
Chocolate frosting
1 container (15 ounces) (Not whipped; to be thinned slightly in the microwave)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk the sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix with 4 cups of skim milk until it thickens, following the package directions.
2
Gently fold the 8-ounce container of Cool Whip Lite into the thickened pudding until well incorporated.
3
Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by lining the bottom with a layer of graham crackers, breaking them as necessary to cover the surface evenly.
4
Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the graham cracker layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5
Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding mixture.
6
Spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over this second layer of graham crackers.
7
Top with another layer of graham crackers to finish the stacking.
8
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate frosting for 20-30 seconds to soften it slightly; stir until smooth.
9
Carefully pour the melted frosting over the top graham cracker layer, spreading it out evenly.
10
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours (or overnight) to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lightened Chocolate Eclair Delight?
It is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that features layers of rich vanilla pudding mixed with Cool Whip, sandwiched between graham crackers and topped with chocolate frosting.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a completely no-bake recipe, making it perfect for warm weather or when you do not want to use the oven.
What kind of pudding mix is required?
The recipe calls for two 1-ounce packages of sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix.
How much milk is used in the pudding?
You will need 4 cups of skim milk to whisk with the pudding mix.
Can I use whole milk instead of skim milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk, though using skim milk helps keep the recipe lightened as intended.
What type of whipped topping is best?
This recipe specifically uses one 8-ounce container of Cool Whip Lite, thawed.
How do I combine the pudding and Cool Whip?
Once the pudding has thickened, you should gently fold the Cool Whip Lite into the mixture until it is well incorporated.
How many graham crackers are needed?
One 16-ounce box of graham crackers is required for the three layers in this dessert.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9x13-inch baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
How many layers of crackers are in the dessert?
There are three layers of graham crackers: one on the bottom, one in the middle, and one on the top.
How many layers of pudding are there?
There are two layers of the pudding mixture spread between the three layers of graham crackers.
What kind of chocolate frosting should I buy?
Use one 15-ounce container of standard chocolate frosting; ensure it is not the 'whipped' variety.
Why do I need to microwave the frosting?
Microwaving the frosting for 20-30 seconds softens it so it can be poured and spread easily over the top layer of crackers.
How long does the dessert need to refrigerate?
It needs to be refrigerated for at least 6 to 8 hours, though overnight is even better.
Why must the dessert sit for several hours?
The chilling time allows the graham crackers to absorb moisture from the pudding, softening them into a cake-like texture.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, it is an ideal make-ahead dessert since it requires several hours of refrigeration to set properly.
How do I prepare the bottom layer?
Line the bottom of the 9x13 dish with a layer of graham crackers, breaking them if necessary to cover the surface.
Is the pudding prepared before adding it to the dish?
Yes, you must whisk the pudding mix with milk until it thickens before folding in the Cool Whip and layering.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
This recipe requires only 5 main ingredients.
Can I use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla?
Yes, you can swap the vanilla pudding for sugar-free chocolate pudding for a double-chocolate version.
How do I ensure the frosting is smooth?
After microwaving the frosting for 20-30 seconds, stir it thoroughly until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Does the frosting need to be hot?
No, it just needs to be slightly warmed and softened to make spreading easier.
Is this dessert suitable for a party?
Absolutely, it is categorized as a great 'gathering' and 'party food' dessert.
Should I use instant or cook-and-serve pudding?
You must use 'instant' pudding mix to ensure it sets correctly without cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain the texture of the pudding and crackers.
Can I use a different brand of whipped topping?
Yes, any brand of light whipped topping will work as long as it is an 8-ounce container.
What is the texture of the final dessert?
The final result is creamy and velvety, with softened graham crackers that mimic the texture of an eclair pastry.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy recipe' and 'quick dessert' because of its simple assembly process.
Can I use low-fat graham crackers?
Yes, low-fat graham crackers can be used to lighten the recipe even further.
Should I use whole or broken graham crackers?
Start with whole crackers, but break them as needed to fill the gaps and cover the dish surface evenly.