Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious no-bake dessert that combines rich brownies, creamy layers, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s perfect for chocolate lovers seeking an easy yet impressive treat to enjoy any time.

Ingredients

• 1 box Brownie Mix (opt for gluten-free if needed)
• 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
• 1 package Instant Pudding Mix (chocolate or vanilla)
• 8 oz Whipped Topping (thawed; non-dairy versions can be used)
• 1 cup Milk (dairy or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 tbsp Espresso Powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• Garnishes such as crushed nuts, fresh berries, or caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions and bake it in a greased baking dish for 25-30 minutes.
2. Step 2: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before proceeding.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. If desired, add powdered sugar to taste. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until blended.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, milk, and espresso powder (if using) until thickened.
5. Step 5: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Pour the pudding layer on top, then dollop and spread the remaining whipped topping.
6. Step 6: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set and develop flavors.
7. Step 7: When ready to serve, slice the cake and garnish with fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce as desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, sprinkle a little espresso powder into the brownie batter to deepen the chocolate notes.
• Mix chocolate and vanilla pudding for a marbled flavor effect.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
• Chill the brownie layer completely before assembling to avoid melting the cream cheese layer.

Storage

Store the refrigerator cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled. If needed, slice and serve directly from the refrigerator; reheating is not recommended as it’s designed to be served cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal to make this cake a day in advance and refrigerate overnight. This allows the layers to set and flavors to meld perfectly.

What can I use instead of instant pudding mix?

If you don’t have instant pudding mix, you can make a homemade pudding from scratch or use mousse to create a similar creamy layer. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 90 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 9–12 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious no-bake layered dessert combining rich baked brownies with creamy layers of cream cheese, instant pudding, and whipped topping. This easy-to-make cake is chilled to set, resulting in a smooth, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite pudding flavors, espresso powder to boost the chocolate notes, and garnish with berries or nuts for a beautiful presentation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Layer

• 1 box Brownie Mix (choose gluten-free if preferred)
• 1 tbsp Espresso Powder (optional, to enhance chocolate flavor)

Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
• Powdered Sugar (amount not specified – estimated 1/2 cup)
• 4 oz Whipped Topping (half of 8 oz)

Pudding Layer

• 1 pkg Instant Pudding Mix (Chocolate or Vanilla)
• 1 cup Milk (dairy or dairy-free alternative)

Topping

• 4 oz Whipped Topping (remaining half)

Garnishes

• Crushed Nuts, Fresh Berries, Caramel Sauce (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Bake Brownies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, adding espresso powder if using. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, beating until combined. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently until the mixture is smooth.
3. Make Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with the milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Then pour the thickened pudding layer over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly. Finally, dollop and gently spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
5. Chill to Set: Cover the assembled cake with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow layers to set and flavors to meld.
6. Serve: When ready, slice the cake into squares. Garnish with your choice of crushed nuts, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Using room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free cream cheese layer.
• Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully in the brownie layer.
• Opt for gluten-free brownie mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Non-dairy whipped toppings and milk alternatives can be used for dairy-free variations.
• Refrigerating overnight improves the texture and flavor melding of the cake.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, no bake cake, layered dessert, chocolate pudding dessert, easy chilled cake, gluten free dessert