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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- Make Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
