Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe
A decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake featuring a rich fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese, luscious chocolate and vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, all garnished with chocolate shavings for an irresistible no-bake dessert.
- Author: Mia
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Assembling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Brownie Base
- 1 brownie mix (9×13 pan size)
- 1 extra-large egg (additional to package directions)
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
Topping
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
- 1 Hershey bar (for shavings) or chocolate syrup
- Prepare the Brownies: Follow the package directions for the brownie mix, but add an extra-large egg beyond what’s called for in the instructions to achieve a fudgier texture. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch pan and bake as directed. Allow the brownies to cool completely before layering.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in one container (8 oz) of whipped topping gently until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla instant pudding mixes with 3 1/2 cups of cold milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens. Spread this pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add the Whipped Topping: Take the remaining container of whipped topping and spread it evenly over the pudding layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Garnish and Chill: Garnish the top with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey bar or drizzle with chocolate syrup for added decor and flavor. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Adding an extra egg to the brownie mix enhances fudginess, making the base richer.
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting and mixing of layers.
- Use chilled milk for pudding preparation to help it set faster.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours; however, chilling overnight will yield even better texture and flavor integration.
- Substitute dairy whipped topping with non-dairy alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Chocolate syrup can be used if you prefer a smoother topping rather than shavings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, no-bake dessert, cream cheese pudding cake, layered brownie dessert, chocolate vanilla pudding dessert