1. Prepare Peanut Butter Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, beating until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy peanut butter mixture. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Eclair Cake Layers:
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Fold in the remaining whipped topping into the pudding mixture until well combined.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers, breaking them as needed to fit.
- Spread half of the peanut butter mixture evenly over the graham crackers layer.
- Place another layer of graham crackers on top of the peanut butter mixture.
- Spread the entire pudding mixture evenly over the second layer of graham crackers.
- Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
4. Frost the Cake:
- Heat the chocolate frosting in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until slightly softened.
- Spread the softened chocolate frosting evenly over the top layer of graham crackers, covering the entire surface of the cake.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, slice the peanut butter eclair cake into squares and serve cold.
- Garnish with additional whipped topping, chocolate shavings, or crushed peanuts if desired.
Tips:
- For a more intense peanut butter flavor, you can add chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips to the peanut butter layer.
- If you prefer a homemade chocolate ganache instead of canned frosting, simply melt together equal parts of chocolate and heavy cream until smooth and glossy, then spread it over the cake.
- Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy this irresistible Peanut Butter Eclair Cake as a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for seconds!