Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe
This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious layered dessert that combines fudgy homemade brownies with creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese, whipped topping, and rich chocolate and vanilla pudding. Chilled to perfection and topped with chocolate shavings or syrup, this cake is an indulgent treat perfect for gatherings or a special dessert at home.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Brownie Layer
- 1 brownie mix (9×13 pan size)
- 1 additional 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
Topping
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
- 1 Hershey bar (for shavings) or chocolate syrup (for garnish)
- Prepare Brownies: Prepare the brownies according to the package directions, adding the extra-large egg to make the texture fudgier. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch pan and bake as directed. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the next layers.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in one container (8 oz) of whipped topping until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer to create a rich and smooth cream cheese layer.
- Prepare Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla instant pudding mixes with 3 1/2 cups of cold milk. Continue whisking until the pudding thickens. Carefully spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer to create a luscious pudding layer.
- Add Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining container (8 oz) of whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer, smoothing it out to create a light and fluffy topping.
- Garnish and Chill: Garnish the top with chocolate shavings made from the Hershey bar or drizzle with chocolate syrup. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For best results, allow the brownies to cool completely to prevent the cream cheese layer from melting.
- You can substitute homemade brownies if preferred; just ensure the pan size matches for layered consistency.
- Use cold milk when preparing pudding to ensure it sets properly.
- Refrigerate the cake covered to avoid absorbing other fridge odors.
- Variations include adding chopped nuts or a splash of coffee to the pudding for deeper flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Brownie Refrigerator Cake, layered dessert, chocolate pudding dessert, cream cheese cake, no-bake pudding cake