Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delicious no-fuss dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy, dreamy topping. This layered treat is perfect for chocolate lovers and can be prepared ahead of time to chill and set in the fridge.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

0.5 cup butter
1 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
0.5 teaspoon baking powder
0.25 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup powdered sugar
1 cup heavy cream, whipped
0.5 cup chocolate chips (divided)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prepare for the brownie batter.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined without overmixing.
Step 6: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 8: While the brownies cool, prepare the filling by beating together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a medium bowl until smooth.
Step 9: Fold the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips gently into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 10: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
Step 11: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the filling for an extra chocolate touch.
Step 12: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let it set before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a richer brownie, use dark cocoa powder, and consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Substitute half the chocolate chips with chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
If you prefer a lighter topping, fold in some whipped egg whites instead of all heavy cream.
Make this a gluten-free dessert by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage

Store the Brownie Refrigerator Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, serve chilled. If desired, bring to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the cream cheese topping may separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brownies for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought brownies can save time. Just ensure they are cooled completely before adding the cream cheese topping.

How long can I refrigerate the cake before serving?

The cake should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to set well, but it can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 117 reviews

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious no-bake dessert featuring a rich brownie base topped with a creamy, fluffy cream cheese and whipped cream filling studded with chocolate chips. It’s perfect for make-ahead occasions, combining the fudgy texture of baked brownies with a chilled, creamy topping that melts in your mouth.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

0.5 cup butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
0.5 teaspoon baking powder
0.25 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling and Topping

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup powdered sugar
1 cup heavy cream, whipped
0.5 cup chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to ensure the brownies don’t stick during baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, mixing thoroughly until smooth and creamy to create a rich base.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate, then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and chocolate.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Spread Batter and Bake: Pour and spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, testing doneness with a toothpick that should come out with moist crumbs.
Cool Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to firm up for the topping.
Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
Fold in Cream and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture until evenly blended.
Assemble Cake: Once brownies are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the top of the brownies.
Top with Remaining Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top of the cream cheese layer for extra texture and chocolate flavor.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to set the filling and enhance flavors before slicing and serving.

Notes

Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the cream cheese filling to prevent melting and sliding.
For a richer flavor, use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder.
Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks for a fluffy, light filling texture.
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Optional: Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving for presentation.

Keywords: Brownie Refrigerator Cake, Cream Cheese Topping, No-Bake Dessert, Chocolate Brownies, Chilled Desserts