Description

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert combining fudgy brownies, creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping, and luscious chocolate and vanilla pudding. It requires no baking beyond the brownies themselves and is chilled for a cool, refreshing finale that’s perfect for any occasion.

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 and Garnish

1 container whipped topping (8 oz)
1 Hershey bar (for shavings) or chocolate syrup

Instructions

Prepare Brownies: Prepare the brownies according to package directions, but enhance the fudgy texture by adding an extra large egg to the mix. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the 9×13 pan to ensure they hold their shape for the layers.
Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and one container of whipped topping (8 oz). Blend until smooth and creamy. Evenly spread this creamy mixture over the cooled brownies, creating the first luscious layer.
Prepare Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together both chocolate and vanilla instant pudding mixes with 3 1/2 cups cold milk. Whisk until the mixture thickens completely. Gently spread this pudding layer over the cream cheese layer, covering it evenly.
Add Whipped Topping: Use the remaining container of whipped topping (8 oz) to spread evenly over the pudding layer. Smooth the top to create a neat surface for garnishing.
Garnish and Chill: Garnish the top with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey bar, or drizzle chocolate syrup as preferred. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

Adding an extra egg to the brownie mix makes the brownies fudgier and richer.
Be sure to fully cool the brownies before adding cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
Use cold milk to help the pudding set quickly and properly.
Refrigerating the cake for at least 2 hours helps the flavors meld and the layers firm up for easy slicing.
Chocolate shavings add a decorative and textural contrast to this creamy dessert.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, layered dessert, instant pudding cake, easy chocolate dessert, cream cheese dessert