Dessert

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

ByVictor Layne December 19, 2025December 19, 2025

Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines fudgy brownies with creamy layers of cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping. Perfectly chilled and topped with chocolate, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy.

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 create a fudgier texture. Bake as directed and let them cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and one container of whipped topping until smooth. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla 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 whipped topping, smoothing it out carefully to cover the entire surface.
Step 5: Garnish with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey bar or drizzle chocolate syrup on top. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, use full-fat cream cheese and whole milk when making the pudding layers.
Try adding a handful of chopped nuts between the layers for added texture.
Substitute the Hershey bar with dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Make sure to cool the brownies completely before assembling to prevent melting the cream cheese layer.

Storage

Store the refrigerator cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly wrapped to avoid absorbing other fridge odors. When ready to serve again, simply slice and enjoy cold; reheating is not recommended as the cake is meant to be served chilled.

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 use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Yes, homemade brownies work great and can add a personal touch. Just be sure to bake them in a 9×13 pan and let them cool completely before layering.

What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?

If you don’t have instant pudding, you can make a homemade pudding from scratch or use pre-made pudding cups, but instant mixes help the layers set firmly for the best texture.