Dessert

Brownie Refrigerator Cake with Cream Cheese and Pudding Layers Recipe

ByZoe Lane December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a decadent no-bake dessert that combines rich brownies, creamy layers, and luscious pudding for an irresistible treat. Perfect for gatherings or a special family dessert, it’s easy to assemble and delightfully indulgent.

The image shows a square slice of layered dessert on a white square plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark brown, dense chocolate cake. Above it is a thick, smooth white cream layer. The next layer is a rich, dark chocolate pudding or mousse, topped with soft, swirled white whipped cream dollops. On top of the whipped cream are dark chocolate shavings scattered over the entire slice and some on the plate. The texture of the cake looks moist, the cream is smooth, and the chocolate layer is glossy. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 brownie mix (9×13 pan size)
1 additional extra-large egg
1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 containers whipped topping (8 oz each)
1 package chocolate instant pudding (3 oz)
1 package vanilla instant pudding (3 oz)
3 1/2 cups milk
1 Hershey bar (for shavings) or chocolate syrup

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the brownies according to the package directions, adding the extra egg to make them fudgier. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and one container of whipped topping until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla instant pudding mixes with the milk until the mixture thickens. Spread the pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Top the pudding layer with the remaining container of whipped topping, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Step 5: Garnish with chocolate shavings made from the Hershey bar or drizzle with chocolate syrup. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to let the layers set.

Tips & Variations

Substitute the Hershey bar shavings with your favorite chocolate curls or chopped nuts for added texture.
Use homemade brownies if you prefer a personalized touch or richer flavor.
For a lighter version, try using low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mixes.
Letting the dessert chill overnight enhances the flavors and makes it easier to slice neatly.

Storage

Store the Brownie Refrigerator Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly sealed to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled directly from the fridge—no reheating needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a square piece of layered chocolate dessert on a white square plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark chocolate cake with a soft texture, topped by a thick creamy white layer that looks smooth and fluffy. Above this is a thinner, glossy dark chocolate layer with a rich, shiny texture. The top is decorated with several white cream swirls, each topped with small chocolate shavings scattered around the plate and on the dessert itself. The whole piece looks rich and moist, with a mix of smooth and textured layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead. Refrigerate it for several hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld perfectly.

What if I don’t have whipped topping containers?

You can substitute with homemade whipped cream; just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form and use it in place of the whipped topping containers.