Description
This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a rich and creamy dessert combining a fudgy brownie base with layers of sweet cream cheese, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. Perfectly chilled, it’s an easy no-bake final layer treat that impresses with luscious textures and a delightful chocolatey finish garnished with chocolate curls.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (plus required ingredients: eggs, oil, water)
Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz whipped topping (half of an 8 oz tub), thawed
Chocolate Filling
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Final Layer
- 4 oz remaining whipped topping, thawed
- Chocolate curls or shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Bake the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix package instructions.
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Mix the brownie batter as directed on the box, including adding eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish evenly.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the brownies until fully set and done. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding.
- Make the Creamy Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until combined evenly and smooth.
- Spread Creamy Layer: Evenly spread this cream cheese and whipped topping mixture over the cooled brownie base, creating the first luscious layer.
- Prepare Chocolate Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix with the 2 cups of cold milk until the pudding thickens, usually about 2-3 minutes.
- Spread Pudding Layer: After the pudding is thick, spread it evenly over the creamy layer on top of the brownies.
- Add Final Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer to finish off the cake.
- Garnish: Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate curls or shavings for an elegant and delicious finish.
- Refrigerate: Cover the entire cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly.
- Serve Chilled: Once chilled, slice into 12 servings and enjoy this decadent, creamy brownie refrigerator cake cold.
Notes
- Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before layering to prevent melting the cream cheese mixture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for the creamiest texture.
- Instant pudding mix thickens quickly; spread promptly after preparation.
- This cake can be prepared a day ahead for convenient entertaining.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.