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Ultimate No-Bake Brownie Refrigerator Cake with Cream Cheese and Chocolate Pudding Layers

A perfect square slice of brownie refrigerator cake showing five distinct layers, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

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Assemble this easy make-ahead chocolate cake featuring fudgy brownie layers, a tangy cream cheese filling, and rich chocolate pudding. This chilled chocolate delight requires no oven time and is perfect for parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (about 18 ounces) store-bought fudgy brownies, cut into uniform squares
  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equivalent homemade whipped cream)
  • 1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • Optional: Chocolate shavings for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brownie layer: Line an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch square baking dish with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang for easy removal later. Arrange the cut brownie squares tightly in a single layer on the bottom of the dish.
  2. Make the cream cheese layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the thawed whipped topping until just combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the brownie layer.
  3. Prepare the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about two minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken. Let it stand for five minutes.
  4. Spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  5. Top the cake: Gently spread the remaining half of the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
  6. Chill: Cover the dish with the plastic wrap overhang and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set completely. This is the essential step for a firm, sliceable refrigerator cake.
  7. Serve: Use the plastic wrap overhang to lift the cake from the dish. Slice into squares and top with chocolate shavings, if using. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • You can substitute store-bought brownies with your favorite homemade fudgy brownie recipe baked and cooled completely.
  • For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate pudding mix instead of regular chocolate pudding.
  • This stress free dessert keeps well for up to 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

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