Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers rich brownies, creamy cheesecake, and luscious pudding for a perfect treat. It’s easy to prepare and impresses with its combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 box brownie mix (prepared according to package instructions)
• 1 extra-large egg (or as required by brownie mix)
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 (8 oz.) containers whipped topping, divided
• 1 (3 oz.) package instant chocolate pudding
• 1 (3 oz.) package instant vanilla pudding
• 3 ½ cups milk
• 1 Hershey bar (grated) or chocolate syrup for drizzling

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions, using the extra-large egg. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed. Allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in one container (8 oz.) of whipped topping until well combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix, vanilla pudding mix, and 3 ½ cups of milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken. Once set, spread the pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Step 4: Spread the remaining container (8 oz.) of whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle the grated Hershey bar on top or drizzle with chocolate syrup to garnish.
5. Step 5: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade brownies for a richer, more personalized flavor.
• Substitute the Hershey bar topping with chopped nuts or fresh berries for added texture.
• For a lighter version, try reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives.
• Letting the dessert chill overnight improves the melding of flavors and makes slicing easier.

Storage

Store the Brownie Refrigerator Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. Reheating is not recommended, as this dessert is best enjoyed cold and fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Yes, homemade brownies work wonderfully and can add a richer flavor to the dessert. Just ensure they fit a 9×13-inch pan and are fully cooled before layering.

Is it necessary to use both chocolate and vanilla pudding?

Combining chocolate and vanilla puddings creates a balanced flavor and color contrast, but you can use just one kind if preferred. Adjust the milk quantity accordingly and follow package instructions.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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4.5 from 147 reviews

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a decadent no-bake layered dessert that combines a rich homemade brownie base with creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese, luscious chocolate and vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. Finished with a sprinkle of grated chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate syrup, this cake is chilled to perfection, making it an ideal make-ahead treat that’s creamy, chocolatey, and irresistibly smooth.

• Author: Amy
• 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
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Layer

• 1 box brownie mix (prepared according to package instructions)
• 1 extra-large egg (or as required by brownie mix)

Cream Cheese Layer

• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping

Pudding Layer

• 1 (3 oz.) package instant chocolate pudding
• 1 (3 oz.) package instant vanilla pudding
• 3 ½ cups milk
• 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping

Topping

• 1 Hershey bar (grated) or chocolate syrup for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix package instructions. Prepare the brownie batter by mixing the brownie mix with one extra-large egg (or as specified). Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake as instructed on the package. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in one container (8 oz.) of whipped topping until just combined to maintain a light texture. Evenly spread this cream cheese mixture over the cooled brownie layer.
3. Prepare the Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding, instant vanilla pudding, and 3 ½ cups of milk until the mixture begins to thicken. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes to fully set. Then, spread this pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Final Layer & Garnish: Take the second container (8 oz.) of whipped topping and spread it evenly over the pudding layer, creating a light and fluffy finishing layer. Sprinkle the grated Hershey bar chocolate over the top or alternatively, drizzle chocolate syrup to garnish the cake beautifully.
5. Chill & Serve: Cover the entire cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set—overnight refrigeration is preferable. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve cold for a refreshing, indulgent dessert.

Notes

• Ensure the brownie layer is fully cooled before adding subsequent layers to prevent melting or mixing.
• You can substitute whipped topping with freshly whipped heavy cream for a more natural option.
• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate pudding or add cocoa powder to the cream cheese layer.
• If you prefer a firmer pudding layer, reduce the milk by ¼ cup.
• This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—cover well to prevent drying out.

Keywords: Brownie Refrigerator Cake, layered dessert, no-bake cake, chocolate pudding cake, cream cheese dessert, easy refrigerator cake