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brownie refrigerator cake
Laura

Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Layers of fudgy brownies, cream cheese filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping create this no-bake dessert that's perfect for hot days and potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 4 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box (18-20 oz) fudge brownie mix plus eggs, oil, and water per package
  • 1 large egg additional, for cake-like texture
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar sifted
  • 2 containers (8 oz each) whipped topping thawed
  • 3.4 oz chocolate instant pudding mix
  • 3.4 oz vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 3.5 cups cold whole milk
  • 0.5 cup mini chocolate chips for topping
  • as needed chocolate syrup for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • electric mixer
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. Prepare brownie mix according to package directions, adding the extra egg for a more cake-like texture.
  2. Bake brownies for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely in pan on wire rack.
  3. Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in one container of whipped topping.
  4. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over cooled brownies. Set aside.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together both pudding mixes with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let sit 5 minutes.
  6. Pour pudding mixture over cream cheese layer. Top with remaining whipped topping, spreading gently to cover completely.
  7. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over top and drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired.
  8. Cover tightly with plastic wrap touching the surface. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
  9. Cut into squares with a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use cold milk straight from refrigerator for best pudding results
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for at least 1 hour before mixing
  • Cut brownies into chunks for more distinct layers if preferred
  • Can be made up to 2 days ahead for best flavor
  • Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days