Indulge in the Ultimate Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake: A Layered Dessert Masterpiece
Prepare to be swept away by the sheer delight of our **Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake**. This is more than just a dessert; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors, thoughtfully layered to create an unforgettable experience. Starting with a delicate, airy choux pastry base, it’s generously topped with a rich, silky smooth chocolate filling, followed by a light and tangy vanilla pudding and cream cheese layer, all crowned with a sweet, fluffy whipped topping. While it’s assembled in one convenient pan, each component contributes to a dessert that tastes far more complex and luxurious than its preparation suggests. Truly, this is a showstopper that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a weekend treat, this eclair cake combines classic French patisserie elegance with the comforting familiarity of a home-baked American dessert. The contrast between the slightly crisp choux, the creamy fillings, and the decadent chocolate is simply irresistible. Get ready to impress with this mouthwatering, multi-layered marvel.
Why This Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake Is a Must-Try
This eclair cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a culinary legacy. Much like cherished family recipes such as my Pineapple Dream Dessert, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and shared memories. It’s the kind of dish that almost everyone has a connection to – whether they’ve made it themselves, or their grandmother, aunt, or mother used to whip up this delightful treat. Its widespread appeal is a testament to its incredible flavor and comforting presence at any table. This dessert never fails to disappear quickly, with every crumb and morsel savored. It’s simply that good.
While we won’t dwell too much on the calorie and fat count (after all, some things are just worth it!), it’s safe to say this is an indulgent treat. If you’re mindful of such things, perhaps consider enjoying a piece and sharing the rest with a neighbor or bringing it to your next social gathering. Trust me, you’ll be the undisputed star of any afternoon barbecue or dinner party. The unique combination of a light choux pastry base, a rich chocolate layer, and creamy vanilla filling creates a textural and flavor profile that stands out from typical cakes or pies. It offers that “wow factor” without being overly complicated, making it a perfect choice for both experienced bakers and enthusiastic beginners looking for a show-stopping dessert.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake
To create this magnificent Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake, you’ll need a selection of common pantry staples and a few special items. While the full list with precise measurements is available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s an overview of the key components and what makes them shine.
Ingredient Insights and Smart Substitutions
- CRUST (Choux Pastry): The foundation of this eclair cake is the renowned cream puff, or choux pastry. This delicate, light, and airy dough is crafted from a simple combination of butter, water, flour, and eggs. What makes choux pastry truly unique is its ability to puff up in the oven, creating a hollow center that is perfect for holding creamy fillings. It’s a French classic, used in everything from eclairs to profiteroles, and provides a wonderful textural contrast to the soft layers above. Ensuring your butter and water come to a rolling boil and beating the eggs in one at a time are key to its success.
- CHOCOLATE FILLING: The second layer is a luscious, silky smooth chocolate sauce. Our recipe calls for semisweet chocolate, butter, vanilla extract, confectioners’ (powdered) sugar, and hot water. For a more intense chocolate experience, you could easily substitute dark chocolate. A crucial tip here: always opt for baking chocolate (often found in bars and measured by weight) over chocolate chips. Baking chocolate melts more smoothly and incorporates better into sauces, giving you that truly professional, glossy finish. Sifting the powdered sugar is also vital to prevent lumps, ensuring a perfectly smooth and spreadable consistency.
- CREAM FILLING: This delightful layer brings together instant vanilla pudding mix, softened cream cheese, and milk to form a rich, creamy, and subtly tangy filling. The cream cheese not only adds a wonderful depth of flavor but also helps to stabilize the pudding, preventing it from becoming too runny. While vanilla is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other instant pudding flavors like chocolate, banana, or coconut for a fun twist. Using whole milk will result in a richer, creamier texture for your pudding layer.
- TOPPING (Whipped Topping): For convenience and consistent results, we typically use Cool Whip for the final fluffy topping. Its stability ensures it holds its shape beautifully over time, even after refrigeration. However, if you prefer a homemade touch, you are absolutely welcome to use your own freshly whipped cream. To make homemade whipped cream, simply beat heavy cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Just keep in mind that homemade whipped cream can sometimes weep a bit after a day or two, so Cool Whip might be the better choice if you plan to store the cake for longer.
How to Assemble Your Dreamy Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this incredible dessert. For a convenient printable version of the entire recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your choux pastry will bake correctly from the start.
- For the choux pastry: In a large, heavy saucepan, combine the butter and water. Heat this mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a vigorous boil. Once boiling, immediately add all the flour at once and reduce the heat to low. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the pan. This process cooks the flour and forms the “pâte à choux.” Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the dough to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and glossy before adding the next. This step is crucial for the pastry’s texture.
- Evenly spread the choux pastry onto the bottom and slightly up the sides of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the pastry to cool completely on a wire rack. This is essential for the structure of the cake and to prevent the chocolate layer from melting.
- Prepare the chocolate filling: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butter on high for 1 minute. Stir well, then continue heating in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually sift in the confectioners’ sugar, a little at a time, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Finally, drizzle in the hot water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. You may not need all the water. Spread this rich chocolate layer evenly over the completely cooled choux pastry.
- For the creamy filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy. Slowly and gradually add the milk while continuing to beat, ensuring it’s well combined and smooth. Once the cream cheese and milk are thoroughly blended, add the dry instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat on medium speed until the mixture thickens to a creamy, spreadable consistency. Carefully spread this luscious cream filling over the chocolate layer in the cooled pastry, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Gently spread the whipped topping over the cream cheese and pudding layer, creating a smooth, inviting finish.
- For a decorative touch and extra chocolate flavor, draw thin lines of chocolate syrup across the top of the whipped topping.
- Using a knife, gently run it down the top of the cake in the opposite direction of the chocolate syrup lines, spacing them about every 2 inches. This creates an elegant feathered or marbled effect. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow all the layers to set beautifully and the flavors to meld together. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve for the best texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake
Yes, this dessert freezes beautifully! You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw the cake at room temperature for an hour or two, or slowly in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The choux pastry might soften slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Once prepared, this cream puff chocolate eclair cake can be stored in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s well-sealed with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It will typically last for 3-4 days, remaining perfectly delicious.
Absolutely! While Cool Whip offers convenience and excellent stability, you are more than welcome to use a homemade whipped topping if you prefer. Just whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the cake. Keep in mind homemade whipped cream may not hold its shape as long as Cool Whip, especially if left out at room temperature.
Choux pastry relies on steam for its characteristic puff. Common reasons for it not puffing include not bringing the butter and water to a full, rolling boil before adding flour, not cooking the flour mixture long enough to form a proper “ball” and dry out slightly, or adding the eggs when the mixture is too hot (which can cook the eggs prematurely). Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking.
Yes, this is an excellent make-ahead dessert! In fact, it’s often best when allowed to chill for several hours or even overnight, as this gives the layers time to set and the flavors to fully meld together. Simply assemble the cake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to serve. This makes it perfect for entertaining.
This eclair cake is truly one of those desserts that inspires pure, unadulterated joy. It elicits smiles, satisfied sighs, and perhaps even a few happy moans from those who taste it. It’s an absolutely heavenly creation that manages to be sophisticated yet delightfully approachable. A favorite for all ages, it brings a special touch to any occasion, making it a dessert that’s cherished and remembered long after the last bite. The blend of classic pastry with rich, creamy fillings creates an irresistible masterpiece that you’ll want to make again and again.
More Delightful Desserts to Explore
If you loved the ease and deliciousness of this Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake, you’re in luck! Many fantastic dessert recipes offer similar convenience without compromising on flavor. These “one-pan” or easily assembled desserts are perfect for feeding a crowd, bringing to a potluck, or simply enjoying with your family. Here are some more irresistible options that are sure to become new favorites:
- Blueberry Lush: A refreshing and creamy dessert with layers of luscious blueberry and a delightful crust.
- Classic Eclair Cake: If you want a simpler version without the choux pastry, this traditional eclair cake uses graham crackers as its base for a quick assembly.
- Strawberry Pretzel Salad: A beloved sweet and salty treat with a pretzel crust, creamy filling, and a bright strawberry jello topping.
- Boston Cream Poke Cake: This cake takes inspiration from the classic Boston Cream Pie, featuring a moist cake, creamy pudding, and rich chocolate ganache.
- Strawberry Icebox Cake: A fantastic no-bake option that layers cookies and fresh strawberries with whipped cream for a light and airy dessert.
- No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake: Another variation of the eclair cake, designed for ultimate ease with no oven required for the base.
- Lemon Cream Cheese Pudding Dessert: A bright and zesty dessert featuring a creamy lemon and cream cheese filling, perfect for citrus lovers.
These recipes prove that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create truly spectacular and satisfying desserts. Each offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, making them perfect additions to your recipe repertoire.
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors, and sharing my culinary discoveries with all of you! It can be a challenge to remember to check back every day for new recipes, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every time a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes, ensuring you never miss out on a delicious new creation!
Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course:
Desserts
Cuisine:
American
20
55 minutes
274
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
Pastry:
- ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup unbleached all purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
Chocolate Filling:
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons hot water
Cream Filling:
- 4 cups milk
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 10.2 ounces instant vanilla pudding 2 5.1-oz pkgs or 3 small, 3.4 oz pkgs
Topping:
- 8 ounce Cool Whip
- 3 tbsp Chocolate syrup
Things You’ll Need
-
Large saucepan
-
Hand mixer
-
13×9 baking dish
Before You Begin
- This cream puff chocolate eclair cake can be stored in the refrigerator sealed with plastic wrap or a tight lid for 3-4 days.
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400 F (200 C).
For the Pastry:
-
In a large heavy saucepan, heat butter and water to boiling over medium-high heat. Add flour and reduce heat to low. Cook and stir until it forms a ball and pulls away from the pan. Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl. With a wooden spoon, beat in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each egg.
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Spread in bottom and up the sides of an ungreased 9×13 inch pan. Bake at 400 degrees F for 35 minutes. Cool completely.
For the Chocolate Filling:
-
Melt chocolate and butter in the microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir. Continue heating at 20-second intervals until smooth. Stir in vanilla. Sift in the powdered sugar, a little at a time, stirring as you go. Dribble water in to the mixture until smooth and spreadable (you may or may not use all the water). Spread over the cooled pastry.
For the Cream Filling:
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In mixing bowl beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly and gradually add the milk while still beating. Once these are well combined, add dry pudding mix and beat until thickened. Spread over chocolate layer in cooled pastry.
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Top with whipped topping, and draw lines of chocolate syrup across the top, then run a knife down the top in the opposite direction of the syrup lines, about every 2 inches. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Nutrition
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post originally appeared here on June 1, 2013 and has since been updated with new photos and expert tips to enhance your baking experience and ensure perfect results every time.