If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s out-of-this-world delicious yet surprisingly easy to assemble, look no further than Brownie Refrigerator Cake. Imagine decadent cubes of brownie layered with creamy cheesecake fluff, a rich chocolate pudding middle, and clouds of whipped topping—all melded together after a chill in the fridge. This no-bake marvel is made ahead for fuss-free entertaining and delivers that dreamy, chocolaty bite every time you crave something indulgent but simple.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every single ingredient in this Brownie Refrigerator Cake brings something special to the party. From the fudgy base to the creamy layers, each component is chosen for ultimate flavor, satisfying texture, and irresistible presentation. Gather these stars and let the magic begin!

Brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, water as per box): The foundation of this cake; rich, chewy, and decadently chocolatey.
Softened cream cheese (8 oz package): Adds velvety decadence and a gentle tang that balances all the sweetness.
Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer for a lush, frost-like flavor.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just the right amount for warmth and aromatic depth.
Whipped topping (8 oz tub, such as Cool Whip): Brings airy lightness and blends beautifully to form fluffy layers.
Instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz box): Delivers deep, silky chocolate notes without fuss.
Cold milk (1 1/2 cups): Whisks into the pudding mix to give it that luscious, spoonable consistency.
Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for topping: A final flourish that adds delectable texture and visual drama.

How to Make Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Step 1: Bake and Cool the Brownies

Start by preparing your brownie base—simply mix up the batter using your favorite boxed mix (plus the eggs, oil, and water as directed) and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. This is your big, bold chocolate layer. Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool completely; this helps them cut into neat cubes for perfect layering.

Step 2: Cube the Brownies

Once the brownies have cooled, carefully slice them into 1-inch cubes. This step is oddly satisfying and sets you up for layers that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in half of the whipped topping to create a dreamy, mousse-like filling that will add richness and contrast to the chocolate layers.

Step 4: Prepare the Pudding

In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until it thickens up into a silky, spoonable pudding—no heat or extra work required!

Step 5: Assemble the Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Begin building your masterpiece: spread half the brownies into a clean 9×13-inch dish, then cover with the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture. Next, layer over your smooth chocolate pudding. Top with the rest of the whipped topping, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top to finish it all off.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

The hardest part? Waiting! Let your Brownie Refrigerator Cake hang out in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight). This chill time lets the flavors meld and the layers set up for picture-perfect slices.

How to Serve Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Garnishes

For a truly show-stopping dessert, go big with your garnishes! Sprinkle generous chocolate shavings, mini chips, or even a dusting of cocoa powder just before serving. A few raspberries or strawberries on top add color and a tart note that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Side Dishes

Keep it classic and let this cake shine solo or accompany with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more grown-up twist, serve alongside fresh brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk—the creaminess plays off the cake’s rich, fudgy layers perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Brownie Refrigerator Cake in individual mason jars or clear dessert cups for cater-worthy cuteness at parties. For special occasions, add colorful sprinkles, a drizzle of caramel, or even a layer of crushed toffee between the brownies and cream for your own custom spin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers, just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or reusable lids and store it in the refrigerator. The chilled layers stay luscious for up to 4 days, making it a wonderful make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

Need to keep your Brownie Refrigerator Cake even longer? Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for a refreshingly cool, just-set texture.

Reheating

No need for any reheating here—the magic of this dessert is in its chilled, creamy layers. If you prefer it a touch softer, let a serving sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before digging in. The flavors only get better!

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a boxed mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to make those instead of a boxed mix for your Brownie Refrigerator Cake. Just be sure to let them cool completely before cubing and layering.

Can I make this cake gluten free?

Yes, simply substitute your preferred gluten-free brownie mix and check that your pudding and whipped topping options are certified gluten free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free!

Is this cake best made in advance?

Yes, Brownie Refrigerator Cake was truly made for make-ahead moments. Letting it chill for several hours (or overnight) deepens the flavors, allows the layers to meld, and guarantees the perfect slices.

What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?

No worries! You can use a similarly sized baking dish, or even assemble individual servings in jars or small glasses. Just adjust your layering so you still get every component in each bite.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Certainly! Whipped topping is convenient, but you can swap it for freshly whipped cream (sweetened with a little sugar and stabilized with gelatin, if desired) for a deliciously homemade touch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dessert that delivers on both taste and presentation, give this Brownie Refrigerator Cake a try. With each bite of its luscious, layered goodness, you’ll see why it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to share with everyone you love!

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent layers of this Brownie Refrigerator Cake, a luscious no-bake dessert featuring creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate pudding, and fudgy brownies. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home!

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer:

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on box)

Cheesecake Layer:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

Chocolate Pudding Layer:

1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk

Topping:

Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

Bake the Brownies: Prepare and bake the brownies in a 9×13-inch pan according to package instructions. Let cool and cut into 1-inch cubes.
Prepare Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping.
Mix Chocolate Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Assemble the Cake: Layer half of the brownie cubes in a 9×13-inch dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownies, then add the chocolate pudding. Top with remaining whipped topping and chocolate shavings or chips.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

You can use homemade brownies or add chopped nuts or toffee bits for extra texture.
This cake is best made ahead for optimal flavor and texture when served chilled.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes (for brownies)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake (after brownies)
Cuisine: American