Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Creamy – Layers of fudgy brownie, cream cheese, and pudding create the ultimate dessert.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for prepping the night before.
Easy to Assemble – Uses simple ingredients with minimal effort.
Customizable – Add nuts, candy, or flavored pudding for variety.
Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownie Layer:

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed, divided

For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

2 boxes (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk

For Topping:

Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Brownie Layer:

Preheat oven according to the brownie mix instructions.
Prepare and bake the brownies in a 9×13-inch pan as directed on the box.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding layers.

Make the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.

Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mixes and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Top and Chill:

Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Calories: ~350 kcal per slice

Variations

Homemade Brownies: Use a homemade brownie recipe for a richer base.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for extra texture.
Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl peanut butter into the pudding layer or add Reese’s pieces.
Oreo Delight: Add a layer of crushed Oreos on top of the cream cheese layer.
Mint Chocolate: Use mint chocolate pudding and top with crushed peppermint candies.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving: Best served chilled straight from the fridge for the perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best when chilled overnight, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully cooled before adding layers.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

Use homemade whipped cream (whipped heavy cream with a little sugar) for a fresh alternative.

Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Yes! Vanilla, caramel, or butterscotch pudding all work well.

Will this dessert hold up at room temperature?

It should be served chilled, as the layers soften if left out too long.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Yes! Sliced strawberries or raspberries pair well with the chocolate layers.

Can I use sugar-free pudding and whipped topping?

Yes, for a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding and light Cool Whip.

How do I make the chocolate shavings?

Use a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar for easy shavings.

Can I use whole milk in the pudding?

Yes, whole milk creates a creamier texture for the pudding.

Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the creamy, chocolatey layers and fun toppings.

Conclusion

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is the ultimate no-fuss, make-ahead dessert that delivers rich chocolate flavor, creamy layers, and an irresistibly smooth texture. Whether you’re making it for a party, holiday, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this easy-to-assemble cake is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy every decadent bite!

Brownie Refrigerator Cake

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This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a rich, no-bake dessert featuring layers of fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake filling, chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. Easy to make and perfect for parties, potlucks, or holidays, this chilled dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 20min
Cook Time: 4hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer:

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed, divided

For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

2 boxes (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk

For Topping:

Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:

Preheat oven according to the brownie mix instructions.
Prepare and bake the brownies in a 9×13-inch pan as directed.
Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding layers.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Fold in half of the whipped topping until combined.
Spread evenly over the cooled brownie layer.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Spread evenly over the cream cheese layer.

4. Top and Chill:

1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:
1. Preheat oven according to the brownie mix instructions.
2. Prepare and bake the brownies in a 9×13-inch pan as directed.
3. Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding layers.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
1. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Fold in half of the whipped topping until combined.
3. Spread evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
2. Spread evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Top and Chill:
1. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
2. Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set

Notes

Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert is best chilled overnight for the perfect texture.
Substitutions: Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if desired.
Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.