Description
This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious, no-bake layered dessert featuring fudgy brownies, a creamy cream cheese layer, and rich chocolate and vanilla pudding, all topped with whipped topping and chocolate garnishes. It’s perfect for a make-ahead treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1 brownie mix (9×13 pan size)
- 1 additional extra-large egg
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
Pudding Layer
- 1 package chocolate instant pudding (3 oz)
- 1 package vanilla instant pudding (3 oz)
- 3 1/2 cups milk
Topping
- 1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
- 1 Hershey bar (for shavings) or chocolate syrup
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Prepare the brownies according to the package directions, but add an extra large egg to the mix to enhance fudginess. Bake as directed and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and one container of whipped topping. Mix until smooth and creamy, then evenly spread this mixture over the cooled brownie layer.
- Prepare Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate and vanilla instant pudding mixes with the milk until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula for a neat finish.
- Garnish and Chill: Garnish the top with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey bar or drizzle with chocolate syrup as desired. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Adding the extra egg to the brownie mix enhances moistness and fudginess in the brownies.
- The dessert needs at least 2 hours of refrigeration to set properly, but overnight chilling will improve the flavor and texture even more.
- For a quicker version, pre-made brownies can be used instead of baking from scratch.
- Chocolate syrup can be used as an alternative to chocolate shavings for easier garnish.
- This dessert is best served chilled and kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, layered dessert, no bake dessert, chocolate pudding cake, cream cheese dessert
