Print

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

4.6 from 121 reviews

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delicious no-bake layered dessert that combines fudgy brownies, a creamy cream cheese layer, rich chocolate and vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s garnished with chocolate shavings or syrup and chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or a luscious everyday dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer

  • 1 brownie mix (9×13 pan size)
  • 1 extra-large egg (in addition to the package instructions)

Cream Cheese Layer

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

Pudding Layer

  • 1 package (3 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix
  • 1 package (3 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 3 1/2 cups milk

Topping and Garnish

  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
  • 1 Hershey bar for shavings or chocolate syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brownies: Follow the package directions for the brownie mix but add one extra large egg than called for to make the brownies fudgier. Bake in a 9×13 pan as instructed. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely before assembling the cake.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and one container of whipped topping. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer to form the second layer of the cake.
  3. Prepare the Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla instant pudding mixes with 3 1/2 cups cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread this pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Add the Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining container of whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer, smoothing it out to create a fluffy final layer.
  5. Garnish and Chill: Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey bar or drizzle with chocolate syrup. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to set before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent it from melting.
  • Use cold milk for the instant pudding to help it set properly and thicken quickly.
  • You can substitute the chocolate shavings with chocolate chips or cocoa powder if preferred.
  • This cake can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • For easier slicing, chill the cake well and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water.

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, layered dessert, no bake cake, pudding cake, cream cheese dessert