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Decadent No-Bake Brownie Refrigerator Cake

A rich slice of brownie refrigerator cake showing multiple layers of chocolate and cream, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

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Assemble this rich, layered chocolate cake using fudgy brownie crumbles, creamy pudding, and a tangy cream cheese layer. This dessert sets up perfectly in the refrigerator, making it ideal for make-ahead preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (18 ounce) package store-bought fudgy brownies
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 (3.9 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for whipped cream)
  • Chocolate shavings, for topping

Instructions

  1. Crumble the store-bought brownies into fine pieces. Mix the brownie crumbles with the melted butter until evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch square pan lined with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Place the base in the freezer for 15 minutes.
  2. Prepare the chocolate pudding according to package directions, using 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  4. Gently fold the slightly cooled chocolate pudding into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. This is your cream cheese layer.
  5. Spread the cream cheese-pudding mixture evenly over the chilled brownie base. Return the pan to the refrigerator to set for at least 1 hour.
  6. In a clean bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
  7. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set pudding layer.
  8. Cover the cake loosely and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to firm up completely.
  9. Before serving, lift the cake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Top generously with chocolate shavings. Slice and serve cold.

Notes

  • For a richer brownie base, you can bake your favorite fudgy brownie recipe and crumble it once cooled.
  • Use full-fat milk when preparing the instant pudding for the best texture.
  • If you prefer a lighter topping, substitute the whipped cream with frozen whipped topping (thawed).

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