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Decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake: Your No-Bake Layered Delight

Two stacked squares of rich brownie refrigerator cake showing dark chocolate layers and thick white cream filling.

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Create an impressive, layered chocolate dessert without turning on your oven. This no-bake brownie refrigerator cake combines fudgy brownie pieces with creamy layers of pudding and whipped topping, setting perfectly in the fridge for an easy make-ahead party treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (18.25 ounce) package fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients to prepare brownies)
  • 1 cup cold milk
  • 1 (3.9 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brownies according to package directions using a 9×13 inch pan. Let the brownies cool completely, then cut them into 1-inch squares.
  2. Prepare the chocolate pudding according to the package directions, using cold milk. Let the pudding set for 5 minutes, then set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping until just combined.
  4. In a large bowl, gently fold together the cooled brownie squares, the prepared chocolate pudding, and the cream cheese mixture. Do not overmix; you want distinct layers of brownie visible.
  5. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang. Spoon the brownie mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
  6. Spread the remaining half of the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top layer. Sprinkle with chocolate chips, if using.
  7. Cover the dish with the plastic wrap overhang and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set firmly.
  8. When ready to serve, use the plastic wrap overhang to lift the cake from the dish. Cut into squares and serve cold.

Notes

  • For a truly fudgy texture, slightly underbake the brownies before cutting them into squares.
  • You can substitute graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter for the bottom layer if you prefer a crust element in this easy icebox cake recipe.
  • This make ahead party dessert tastes best when chilled for a full 12 hours.

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