Brownie Refrigerator Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves layers of gooey brownies, creamy pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and chocolatey crunch—all with barely any effort. Imagine digging your spoon through silky chocolate, pillowy softness, and just enough bite from those brownie pieces to keep you coming back for seconds (or thirds). Whether you need a make-ahead treat for a party or a family-friendly sweet to enjoy after dinner, this show-stopping recipe shines with every chilled, chocolate-packed bite.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Brownies:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Additional Layers:
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (optional for topping)

How to Make Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Step 1: Bake and Cool the Brownies

Start by preparing your box brownie mix as directed, using a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until the brownies are set and the edges begin to puff up, then let them cool completely. This cooling step is important—warm brownies will melt the pudding and toppings, making the layers messy!

Step 2: Cut or Crumble the Brownies

Once cool, either cut the brownies into small squares or gently crumble them into bite-sized chunks. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—rustic pieces create wonderful texture in the finished Brownie Refrigerator Cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until it’s thickened. The thick pudding will help support the layers and ensure the dessert holds up beautifully.

Step 4: Layer the Dessert

Grab a clean 9×13-inch dish or a stunning trifle bowl. Begin layering: first, scatter half of the brownie pieces evenly on the bottom. Spoon over half the chocolate pudding, smoothing it with a spatula. Next, add half of the thawed whipped topping, spreading it all the way to the edges. Repeat the layers with the remaining brownies, pudding, and whipped topping.

Step 5: Top and Chill

Generously sprinkle mini chocolate chips (and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, if using) over the top for a gorgeous finish. Now, cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, making each slice perfect!

How to Serve Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Garnishes

For the best presentation, crown your Brownie Refrigerator Cake with a light snowfall of mini chocolate chips, a handful of extra cookie crumbs, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Fresh berries or chocolate curls make it extra special and add vibrant color.

Side Dishes

While this cake is decadent enough to stand alone, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to go all out. A hot cup of strong coffee or cold milk is the perfect partner, balancing out the chocolatey richness with each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Brownie Refrigerator Cake in tall parfait glasses for individual portions, or transform it into a fabulous trifle for holiday gatherings. You can even cut chilled squares and tuck them into cupcake liners for a party platter that’s as cute as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Brownie Refrigerator Cake stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeks or entertaining.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers for up to a month—just wrap the dish securely in several layers of plastic and foil, or use airtight freezer containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for optimum texture.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let a slice sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a boxed mix?

Absolutely! Using your own brownie recipe makes the Brownie Refrigerator Cake even richer and more personal. Just be sure they are cooled completely before assembling.

What can I substitute for whipped topping?

If you prefer, you can use freshly whipped cream sweetened with a bit of powdered sugar. It will be a bit softer but absolutely delicious.

Does the pudding have to be chocolate?

Chocolate is classic, but feel free to get creative! Try vanilla or even cookies-and-cream pudding for a fun twist on the Brownie Refrigerator Cake.

Is this dessert safe to make ahead?

Definitely! Brownie Refrigerator Cake actually improves after a few hours in the fridge, giving the flavors time to meld and the layers to set.

Can I add extra ingredients to the layers?

Go for it! Crushed candy bars, caramel bits, nuts, or different flavored chips make great additions and allow you to personalize your cake to your taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fuss-free, absolutely crowd-pleasing treat, you have to give Brownie Refrigerator Cake a try. It’s simple, nostalgic, and bursting with chocolatey goodness—just the kind of recipe everyone asks for after the first bite!

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent layers of chocolate goodness with this easy-to-make Brownie Refrigerator Cake. Perfect for a sweet treat or special occasions, this no-bake dessert is guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownies:

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

Pudding Layer:

1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
2 cups cold milk

Additional Layers:

1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
½ cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (optional for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the Brownies: Prepare the brownies according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Allow to cool completely, then cut into small squares or crumble into chunks.
Make the Pudding Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Layer the Dessert: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half the brownie pieces, followed by half the pudding, and then half the whipped topping. Repeat the layers.
Final Touches: Sprinkle the top with mini chocolate chips and crushed cookies if using. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve: Serve chilled.