Description

This Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious no-bake dessert combining a fudgy brownie base with creamy layers of whipped cream cheese and instant pudding. Perfectly chilled and topped with fresh berries or nuts, it’s an easy yet elegant treat that satisfies any chocolate lover’s cravings without the fuss of baking multiple layers.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer

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

Cream Cheese Layer

8 oz Cream Cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
4 oz Whipped Topping, thawed

Pudding Layer

1 package Instant Pudding Mix (Chocolate or Vanilla)
1 cup Milk (can substitute dairy-free alternatives)

Finishing Topping

4 oz Whipped Topping, thawed
1 tbsp Espresso Powder (optional, to enhance chocolate flavor)
Garnishes such as crushed nuts, fresh berries, or caramel sauce as desired

Instructions

Prepare Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and bake the brownie mix according to package instructions, typically around 25-30 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and continue to mix. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently to maintain a light and creamy texture.
Prepare Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base. Pour the prepared pudding layer over the cream cheese layer and gently spread it out.
Add Final Whipped Topping: Dollop and spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer to finish the cake.
Chill the Cake: Cover the assembled cake with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Serve: Slice the chilled cake and garnish with your choice of fresh berries, crushed nuts, or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free brownie mix.
Espresso powder is optional, but it intensifies the chocolate flavor for a richer taste.
Whipped topping can be substituted with dairy-free versions for lactose intolerance.
Refrigerating overnight improves texture and flavor fusion.
Use freshly whisked pudding for best consistency and avoid lumps.
Fresh berries or nuts add texture contrast and visual appeal.

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

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, no-bake brownie dessert, layered brownie cake, chocolate pudding cake, easy chocolate dessert, refrigerator cake