Decadent Layered Chocolate Eclair Delight

1. Prepare the Pudding Mixture

Start by combining the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously with a rubber spatula to prevent burning. Once it boils, reduce the heat and continue cooking for about 4-6 minutes until the mixture thickens and large bubbles appear on the surface. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.

2. Chill the Pudding

Transfer the pudding to a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the pudding for about 2 hours until it is well chilled.

3. Prepare the Gelatin

Meanwhile, prepare the gelatin by stirring it into the water in a small bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes until it blooms, then microwave it for 15-30 seconds until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

4. Whip the Cream

In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip 2 cups of the heavy cream on medium-low speed until it begins to thicken, then increase the speed to high and whip until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes. Slowly add the gelatin mixture and continue whipping until stiff peaks form, about 1 more minute.

5. Combine Pudding and Whipped Cream

Once the pudding is chilled, whisk one-third of the whipped cream into the pudding to lighten it, then gently fold in the remaining whipped cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

6. Assemble the Dessert

To assemble the dessert, cover the bottom of a 13x9-inch baking dish with a layer of graham crackers. Spread half of the pudding-cream mixture over the crackers, then add another layer of graham crackers. Spread the remaining pudding-cream mixture over the second layer of crackers, and finish with a final layer of graham crackers.

7. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

For the chocolate glaze, combine the chocolate chips, remaining 0.75 cups of heavy cream, and corn syrup in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring after each increment, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let the glaze cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes, then pour it over the top layer of graham crackers, spreading it evenly.

8. Refrigerate and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the layers to meld and set. When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy your Decadent Layered Chocolate Eclair Delight. This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.