Description
A luscious Brownie Refrigerator Cake featuring a rich brownie base topped with creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese, fluffy whipped topping, and a luscious pudding blend, finished with a chocolate garnish. This no-bake layered dessert is perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead for a chilled, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 box brownie mix (prepared according to package instructions)
- 1 extra-large egg (or as required by brownie mix)
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3 oz.) package instant chocolate pudding
- 1 (3 oz.) package instant vanilla pudding
- 3 ½ cups milk
- 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping
For Topping:
- 1 Hershey bar (grated) or chocolate syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat the oven as instructed on the brownie mix package. Prepare the brownie batter by combining the mix and an extra-large egg according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake until fully cooked. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in one 8 oz. container of whipped topping until evenly combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer to form a smooth blanket.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding, instant vanilla pudding, and 3 ½ cups of milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Let it sit for 5 minutes to further set. Then, spread this pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Final Layer & Garnish: Spread the remaining 8 oz. container of whipped topping over the pudding layer to create a fluffy top layer. Garnish the cake by sprinkling grated Hershey’s chocolate over the top or drizzling with chocolate syrup for an attractive finish.
- Chill & Serve: Cover the assembled cake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. Slice into 12 to 16 servings and serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting or mixing of layers.
- For a quicker set, you can use cold milk when preparing the pudding, but allow sufficient time to chill the cake afterwards.
- The cake can be garnished with nuts or fresh berries as an alternative topping.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- This dessert is best served chilled and does not require baking beyond the brownie base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
