Brownie Refrigerator Cake (Layered, Chilled, and Totally Addictive)
If you’re looking for a chocolate dessert that’s easy to assemble, packed with texture, and hits every sweet tooth note — Brownie Refrigerator Cake is your answer. It’s got all the things we love: fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake-like filling, silky pudding, and a cloud of whipped topping.
No fancy decorating, no precise piping, just straightforward, luscious layers. You make it ahead, chill it overnight, and wow everyone the next day.
Why I Love This Recipe
What do you get when you stack brownies, cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping? A chilled chocolate dream.
✨ Uses store-bought shortcuts for ease
🍫 Rich and indulgent without being too heavy
❄️ Perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and holidays
🧁 No slicing stress—each piece holds its shape beautifully
It’s got the same magic appeal as Brownie Batter Dip and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs, but in a big pan to feed a crowd.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: eggs, oil, water, etc.)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed and divided
- 2 boxes (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- Chocolate shavings or curls, for garnish
🔁 Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Brownie mix: Use your favorite brand. Fudgy > cakey is our go-to.
- Whipped topping: Homemade whipped cream works too, but Cool Whip holds shape longer in the fridge.
- Pudding flavor: Try French vanilla or cookies & cream for a twist.
- Toppings: Crushed Oreos, toffee bits, or Old School No-Bake Cookies bits make it even more fun.
👨🍳 How to Make Brownie Refrigerator Cake
1. Bake the Brownies
Preheat your oven to the temperature listed on the box. Prepare and bake the brownies according to package instructions in a lightly greased 9×13-inch pan. Let them cool completely.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and continue to mix until well combined. Fold in HALF of the whipped topping until light and creamy.
3. Whip Up the Pudding
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mixes and cold milk until thickened—about 2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Layers
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base.
- Gently spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping. Smooth the top.
5. Chill & Garnish
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). Before serving, garnish with chocolate curls or shavings.
💡 Pro Tips for Success
- Cool brownies completely before layering to avoid melting the creamy layers.
- Use a cold bowl for whipping pudding — it helps it set faster.
- Make the night before for the best texture and flavor development.
- Slice with a hot knife for clean layers—just rinse under hot water between cuts.
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dessert is great for:
- Birthday parties
- Potlucks
- Holiday spreads
- Casual weekend treats
Pair it with:
- A glass of cold milk
- Fresh berries on the side
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Or alongside Banana Pudding for a creamy, dreamy dessert duo
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
To Store:
Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The layers hold well without becoming soggy.
To Freeze:
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
To Make Ahead:
Ideal for day-before prep! Garnish just before serving for the best texture.
🍰 More Crowd-Pleasing Desserts You’ll Love
- Brownie Batter Dip
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
- Big Family Banana Pudding
- Old School No-Bake Cookies
📝 Final Thoughts
This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is proof that you don’t need fancy techniques or ingredients to wow a crowd. It’s got fudgy richness, creamy layers, and chilled perfection in every bite.
Make it once, and you’ll be asked to bring it to every gathering from here on out.
Tried it? Let us know how it went—and don’t forget to tag @Chefmaniac when you post your delicious slice!
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