Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe
This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious no-bake dessert featuring a rich brownie base topped with creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese, fluffy whipped topping, and a combination of chocolate and vanilla pudding. Finished with chocolate shavings or syrup, it’s an easy-to-make, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Zane
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Brownie Base
- 1 brownie mix (9×13 pan size)
- 1 extra-large egg
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
Pudding Layer
- 1 package chocolate instant pudding (3 oz)
- 1 package vanilla instant pudding (3 oz)
- 3 1/2 cups milk
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
Topping
- 1 Hershey bar (for shavings) or chocolate syrup
- Prepare Brownie Base: Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Prepare the brownie mix by combining the mix with 1 extra-large egg as directed on the package. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, usually around 20-25 minutes. Allow the brownie to cool completely.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar and continue to beat until creamy and well combined. Gently fold in 1 container of whipped topping until evenly blended to create a smooth, fluffy layer.
- Prepare Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla instant pudding powders with 3 1/2 cups of cold milk. Let it set for about 5 minutes until thickened. Once set, fold in the remaining container of whipped topping gently to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base. Then, carefully layer the pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out evenly.
- Chill the Cake: Cover the assembled cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Add Topping: Just before serving, garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey bar or drizzle with chocolate syrup for added chocolatey goodness.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy this rich, creamy dessert perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Notes
- Ensure the brownie is completely cooled before layering to prevent melting the cream cheese mixture.
- You can substitute store-bought whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes to make a lighter version of this cake.
- If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instant pudding instead of regular chocolate pudding.
- This cake is best served within 2-3 days of preparation for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Brownie Refrigerator Cake, no bake dessert, layered dessert, cream cheese dessert, pudding dessert, chocolate dessert