Chocolate Eclair Cake Layers (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Eclair Cake Filling
01 -
2 cups heavy whipping cream
02 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
03 -
1 cup powdered sugar
04 -
6.8 ounces instant French vanilla pudding (two 3.4 oz packages)
05 -
2 cups whole milk
→ Pastry layers
06 -
¾ cup salted butter
07 -
1½ cups water
08 -
1½ cups all-purpose flour
09 -
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
10 -
6 eggs, room temperature
→ Chocolate Frosting
11 -
½ cup salted butter
12 -
2½ cups powdered sugar
13 -
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
14 -
pinch fine sea salt
15 -
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
16 -
¼ cup whole milk
# Instructions:
01 -
Mix together the French vanilla pudding and milk. Set aside in the refrigerator until thickened (about 5 minutes). Combine heavy whipping cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat on high speed until firm peaks form. Fold the pudding into the whipped cream mixture. Cover and refrigerate.
02 -
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Trace the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan onto parchment paper and place it on a large baking sheet. In a saucepan, combine butter, water, and salt. Bring to a boil until the butter is melted. Add flour all at once and stir until the mixture forms a ball. Transfer to a mixing bowl to cool for 5 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Spread 1¼ cups of batter onto the prepared parchment, leaving a ½-inch border. Spread the remaining batter into the ungreased 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 15-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely.
03 -
In a mixing bowl, beat butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with milk, and beat until light and airy. Set aside.
04 -
Spread the filling evenly over the cooled pastry base in the 9x13-inch pan. Trim the second pastry layer to fit and place it on top of the filling. Spread chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
05 -
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight. Cut into squares and serve.
# Notes:
01 -
Chilling the cake overnight enhances its flavor and texture.