This indulgent, no-fuss dessert layers rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy cheesecake filling and smooth chocolate pudding, all topped with fluffy whipped topping and chocolate shavings. A perfect make-ahead treat for any chocolate lover!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – Uses a brownie mix and instant pudding for a quick and simple dessert.
Make-ahead convenience – Perfect for preparing in advance for parties or gatherings.
Decadent chocolate layers – Combines fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and silky pudding.
No baking after the brownies – Once the brownies are done, it’s just layering and chilling.
Crowd-pleaser – A guaranteed hit for anyone who loves chocolate!

Ingredients

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

For the Brownie Base:

Boxed brownie mix (plus required ingredients: eggs, oil, water)

For the Creamy Layer:

Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Whipped topping, thawed (half of an 8 oz tub)

For the Chocolate Layer:

Instant chocolate pudding mix
Cold milk

For the Topping:

Remaining whipped topping, thawed
Chocolate curls or shavings for garnish

Directions

Bake the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Prepare the brownie batter as directed on the package. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until set. Let the brownie layer cool completely.
Prepare the Creamy Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth and well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
Make the Chocolate Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to firm up slightly. Spread the pudding evenly over the creamy layer.
Add the Final Layer: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer, creating a smooth and fluffy finish. Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings for an elegant touch.
Chill and Serve: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: As per brownie mix
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Peanut Butter Brownie Cake: Add a layer of peanut butter between the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Cookies & Cream Version: Use white chocolate pudding and sprinkle crushed Oreos on top.
Mocha Delight: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the pudding mix for a coffee-infused treat.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped topping for extra indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts to the brownie batter or sprinkle them on top.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
No reheating needed! Enjoy this dessert chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Yes! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before adding the layers.

2. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

3. How do I make chocolate shavings?

Use a vegetable peeler to shave a chocolate bar into curls.

4. Can I make this in a different-sized dish?

Yes, but layering thickness may vary. An 8×8 dish will create taller layers.

5. What type of pudding works best?

Instant chocolate pudding is best; cook-and-serve pudding won’t set properly.

6. Can I add fruit to this dessert?

Yes! Try layering sliced strawberries or bananas between the creamy and pudding layers.

7. How long does it need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is best for fully set layers.

8. Can I make a vanilla version?

Yes! Use vanilla pudding instead of chocolate and add white chocolate curls on top.

9. Will the brownies get soggy?

No, the layers set nicely together without making the brownies too soft.

10. Can I add extra chocolate?

Of course! Add mini chocolate chips to the pudding layer or drizzle melted chocolate on top.

Conclusion

This brownie refrigerator cake is an irresistible, layered dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its rich, fudgy brownies, smooth cheesecake filling, and creamy chocolate pudding, every bite is pure indulgence. Make it ahead of time for a stress-free treat that’s sure to impress!

Brownie Refrigerator Cake

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Print Recipe

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert, layering fudgy brownies, a creamy cheesecake filling, and silky chocolate pudding, all topped with fluffy whipped topping and chocolate shavings. It’s an easy, make-ahead treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers and a guaranteed hit at any gathering!

Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

Instructions

Bake the Brownie Base:
- Preheat oven according to the brownie mix instructions.
- Prepare the brownie batter as directed and pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake until set, then let the brownies cool completely.
Prepare the Creamy Layer:
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth.
- Spread evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In another bowl, whisk together chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then spread over the creamy layer.
Add the Final Layer:
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings.
Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and enjoy chilled!

Notes

Homemade brownies can be used instead of a mix—just ensure they are fully cooled.
For homemade whipped cream, beat 1 cup heavy cream + 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Best enjoyed chilled, no reheating required!

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: As per brownie mix
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake (after brownies)
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian