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5 from 31 votes

No Bake Key Lime Eclair Cake Recipe

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Love key lime pie? You’re going to adore this Eclair Cake! Layers of creamy filling bursting with key lime flavor between graham crackers, topped with vanilla frosting.

slices of Eclair Cake on white plate with blue linenPin

This Eclair Cake is light, creamy, and bursting with the tangy goodness of key lime juice. It’s easier to make than key lime pie too

HERE IS WHAT OUR READERS ARE SAYING:

“This is simply outstanding… I was a bit skeptical of the frosting on top for fear it would be too sweet… but it fits the profile perfectly… I did throw a few graham cracker crumbs and a bit of lime zest on the finished cake before refrigerating… perfection !” – Angie

You don’t even have to turn on the oven for this easy recipe! This makes it an ideal treat for warm days or when you just don’t feel like baking.

Since high school I’ve loved making this cake for special occasions, especially in the spring and summer. I’m obsessed with key limes!

Plus, the no-bake aspect means it’s super quick to put together. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this dessert in no time.

The layers of graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture as they absorb the creamy filling, making each bite melt in your mouth.

This No Bake Key Lime Cake is also a great recipe for when you want to impress guests but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

It looks beautiful and tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did. Eclair Cake is one of my all time favorite desserts!

a hand holding a spatula with a piece of Eclair Cake in airPin
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WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:

  1. No-Bake Convenience: This cake doesn’t require any baking, making it a quick and easy dessert to prepare, especially during warm months.
  2. Refreshing Key Lime Flavor: The tartness of key lime juice combined with the sweetness of condensed milk and whipped topping creates a perfectly balanced, refreshing dessert.
  3. Layers of Graham Crackers: The graham crackers soften to a cake-like texture as they absorb the creamy filling, making each layer deliciously tender and flavorful.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):

  • Cream cheese
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Key lime juice
  • Whipped topping
  • Graham crackers
  • Canned vanilla frosting
ingredients needed to make Eclair CakePin

HOW TO MAKE ECLAIR CAKE:

  1. Whip cream cheese in a large bowl with a hand mixer until creamy.
  2. Add the sweetened condensed milk until combined.
  3. Slowly add the key lime juice until combined.
  4. Fold in the whipped topping.
how to make the filling for Eclair CakePin
  1. Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and place an even layer of graham crackers.
  2. Spread 1/3 of the key lime mixture on top.
  3. Repeat two more times.
  4. Add the final layer of graham crackers on top.
  5. Place frosting with the top off and foil wrapper is taken off completely into the microwave. Microwave for 30 seconds, until frosting is pour-able. Pour evenly over the cake. Spread with a rubber spatula to cover the entire top.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours, up to overnight. Serve immediately.
how to assemble Eclair CakePin

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:

Absolutely!

You can use any frosting you prefer for this easy no bake dessert recipe.

While vanilla frosting complements the key lime flavor beautifully, you could try a cream cheese frosting for a richer taste, or even a light lemon frosting for a more citrusy twist.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making a homemade chocolate frosting in a small saucepan over medium heat, or try a chocolate glaze for a delicious contrast.

The best part is that you can customize this dessert to your liking and make it your own!

If key limes aren’t available at your local grocery store, there is good news!

You can use bottled key lime juice, which is often easy to find.

Alternatively, fresh lime juice is a great substitute, and while the flavor may be slightly different, it’s still a fantastic option.

The key lime flavor is what gives this icebox cake its refreshing taste, but regular lime juice will still make a big hit.

So, whether you use bottled juice or fresh limes, your dessert will be just as delicious!

Eclair Cake in the pan with a slice taken outPin

Easy dessert recipes like this are also easy to change!

Be sure to save the printable recipe card down below.

  • Chocolate ganache: Drizzle a layer of chocolate ganache on top for a chocolatey twist.
  • Whipped cream: Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the frosting for extra creaminess.
  • Coconut flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes between the layers for a tropical flavor.
  • Lime zest: Garnish the top with lime zest for added color and a burst of lime flavor.
  • Fresh berries: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries between the layers for a fruity twist.
  • Crushed nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top for a crunchy texture.
  • Marshmallow fluff: Add a layer of marshmallow fluff for a sweet and gooey addition.
  • Vanilla pudding mix: Mix in instant vanilla pudding for a thicker, richer filling.
  • Mint leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Chocolate chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips between the layers for a fun surprise.

From the graham cracker layer to the heavy cream, I’ve got some subs for you.

Bring on the no bake eclair cake recipe!

  • Regular limes for key limes: If key limes aren’t available, use regular lime juice for a similar flavor.
  • Graham crackers for digestive biscuits: Substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits for a slightly different taste and texture.
  • Whipped topping for homemade whipped cream: If you prefer, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
  • Canned frosting for homemade frosting: Make your own frosting from scratch if you want a more personalized touch.
  • Low-fat cream cheese for regular cream cheese: Use low-fat cream cheese to reduce the calorie count while keeping the creamy texture.
  • Coconut milk for condensed milk: For a dairy-free option, use sweetened coconut milk instead of condensed milk.
a fork holding up a bite of Eclair Cake in airPin

Refrigerator: Store in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 5 days.

This allows the flavors to meld together, and the graham crackers will continue to soften, creating an even better texture.

Freezer: You can also freeze this cake if you want to make it ahead of time.

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

It will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
  • Juicing Key Limes: If you’re juicing key limes yourself, roll them on the counter before slicing to make juicing easier.
  • Chill for Best Results: Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or till the next day, to allow the layers to set properly.
  • Microwave Frosting: To make the frosting pourable, microwave it for 30 seconds and stir well. It should be smooth and easy to spread.
  • Don’t Overmix: When folding in the whipped topping, be gentle to keep the filling light and airy.
  • Layer Evenly: Spread the key lime mixture evenly over the graham crackers to ensure each bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
a slice of Eclair Cake with a bite taken out on a white platePin

This is no little cream puff!

Eclair Cake is the perfect dessert when you’re craving something light, creamy, and tangy.

It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is sure to impress your guests with its refreshing key lime flavor.

Whether you’re making this cake for a special occasion or just because it’s bound to become a new favorite.

If you’ve tried this ECLAIR CAKE, let me know how it turned out in the comments! You can follow me over on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK to find some more of our mouthwatering recipes! 

This Silly Girls Kitchen LogoPin
5 from 31 votes

Key Lime Eclair Cake

Author Dana at ThisSillyGirlsLife.com
Prep: 15 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Key Lime Eclair Cake, layers of creamy filling bursting with key lime flavor between graham crackers, topped with vanilla frosting. Tastes just like a key lime pie, but much easier!
Servings 15 servings

Ingredients
  

Instructions

  • Whip cream cheese in a large bowl with a hand mixer until creamy.
    8 oz cream cheese
  • Add the sweetened condensed milk until combined.
    14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • Slowly add the key lime juice until combined.
    1 pound bag of key limes juiced
  • Fold in the whipped topping.
    8 oz whipped topping
  • Take a 9×13 inch pan and place a layer of graham crackers.
    4 sleeves graham crackers
  • Spread 1/3 of the key lime mixture on top.
  • Repeat two more times.
  • Add the remaining graham crackers on top.
  • Place frosting with the top off and foil wrapper is taken off completely into the microwave. Microwave for 30 seconds, until frosting is pour-able. Pour evenly over the cake. Spread with a spatula to cover the entire top.
    16 ounces canned vanilla frosting
  • Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours, up to overnight. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 402kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 216mg | Potassium: 232mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 375IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 136mg | Iron: 0.4mg
Nutrition Disclaimer
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

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5 from 31 votes (26 ratings without comment)

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19 Comments

  1. Can you use regular limes if you can’t find key limes?

  2. What’s the recipe for the butterscotch pie?

  3. 5 stars
    What would be the name of a good quality lime juice you recommend?

  4. kathleen Gradillas says:

    Some people use regular milk? Have you tried it that way??

  5. 5 stars
    This looks so delicious! I hope to try it soon 🙂

  6. 5 stars
    How did you know our kitchen was gutted last week! Finally a recipe I can make for my dessert loving family! It looks divine!

  7. I’m so glad! I’m not sure how it would be in the freezer but I don’t think it would hurt. BUT, I haven’t tried it. If you do, please let us know how it comes out!

  8. Family enjoyed this. Wondering if able to freeze after setting in the fridge?

  9. This looks soo yummy! I can’t wait to try it. But do you think k I could leave off the icing and use cool whip instead?

  10. I can’t wait to try this recipe! Yum! I love anything key lime and this looks such a great variation. Pinning and sharing. Thanks!

  11. 5 stars
    Oh wow, this is sooo perfect for a unique summertime sweet treat. They make gluten free graham crackers, and I’m pretty sure I can convert this into a fab dessert for my gluten intolerant mom. Pinned this rockin’ recipe! Thanks!
    –G
    http://gingerwroot.com

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