Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines rich brownies, creamy layers, and luscious pudding for a truly indulgent treat. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it brings together chocolatey goodness and light creaminess in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 box Brownie Mix (Opt for gluten-free for dietary needs)
• 8 oz Cream Cheese (Ensure it’s at room temperature)
• 1 pkg Instant Pudding Mix (Chocolate or Vanilla; mix and match for twists)
• 8 oz Whipped Topping (Thaw before spreading; non-dairy versions can be used)
• 1 cup Milk (Can be substituted with dairy-free alternatives)
• 1 tbsp Espresso Powder (Optional; enhances chocolate flavor)
• Garnishes (e.g., crushed nuts, fresh berries, caramel sauce) (Elevate presentation and flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the brownie mix in a greased baking dish for about 25-30 minutes.
2. Step 2: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth, mix in powdered sugar, and fold in half of the whipped topping.
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 layer evenly over the cooled brownies.
6. Step 6: Pour the pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer, then dollop the remaining whipped topping over the pudding.
7. Step 7: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
8. Step 8: Serve by slicing and garnishing with fresh berries, crushed nuts, or caramel sauce as desired.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra boost of chocolate flavor, add the optional espresso powder to the pudding mixture—it enhances depth without bitterness.
• Try mixing chocolate and vanilla pudding packets for a swirl effect and varied taste.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
• Chilling the cake overnight allows the layers to set fully and mingle flavors beautifully.

Storage

Store the brownie refrigerator cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy, slice and serve chilled. Reheating is not recommended as it is intended to be served cold for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of box mix?

Absolutely! Homemade brownies work well and can add a personal touch. Just ensure they are fully cooled before layering.

Is it necessary to use espresso powder?

No, espresso powder is optional. It enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted without affecting the overall taste significantly.

Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 59 reviews

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

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Description

This Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious layered dessert featuring a rich baked brownie base topped with creamy layers of cream cheese mixed with whipped topping, a silky instant pudding layer, and finishing with more whipped topping. Perfect for make-ahead occasions, this no-bake topping combination chills to a velvety and satisfying cake that’s easy to assemble and delightfully indulgent. Garnish with fresh berries, nuts, or caramel sauce for added flavor and presentation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Base

• 1 box Brownie Mix (opt for gluten-free if preferred)

Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 oz Cream Cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
• 4 oz Whipped Topping (half of an 8 oz package), thawed

Pudding Layer

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

Final Whipped Topping Layer

• 4 oz Whipped Topping (remaining half), thawed

Optional Ingredients for Flavor & Garnish

• 1 tbsp Espresso Powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• Garnishes such as crushed nuts, fresh berries, or caramel sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Bake Brownies: 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 until set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix well. Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping until combined and creamy.
3. Make Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
4. Assemble Cake Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Next, pour and spread the thickened pudding over the cream cheese layer. Finally, dollop and gently spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding.
5. Chill the Cake: Cover the assembled cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
6. Serve and Garnish: Slice the chilled brownie refrigerator cake into servings. Garnish with fresh berries, crushed nuts, caramel sauce, or your preferred toppings before serving for an elegant finish.

Notes

• For a gluten-free option, choose a gluten-free brownie mix.
• Room temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free cream cheese layer.
• Espresso powder is optional but enhances the depth of chocolate flavor.
• For dairy-free versions, substitute milk and whipped topping with non-dairy alternatives.
• Refrigerate the cake overnight for best texture and flavor fusion.
• Use fresh berries, nuts, or caramel sauce as garnish to elevate presentation and taste.

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

Keywords: Brownie Refrigerator Cake, No Bake Dessert, Layered Brownie Cake, Instant Pudding Cake, Cream Cheese Dessert, Easy Make-Ahead Dessert