Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Absolutely! Just bake your favorite recipe in the same 9x13 pan. Let them cool completely before layering, warm brownies make everything melt into a sad puddle.

How long does it really take to set?

The minimum is 4 hours, but I swear by overnight chilling. The pudding firms up, the cream cheese layer stops being slippery, and the flavors get all cozy together. It's worth the wait!

Will vanilla pudding work instead of chocolate?

Technically yes, but you'll lose that deep chocolatey magic. If you try it, maybe add a layer of chocolate sauce between the pudding and whipped topping for balance.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I don't recommend it, the texture gets weird and icy. Just share with neighbors (or eat it faster!).

What if my cream cheese layer is lumpy?

Next time, soften it longer! For now, press the mixture through a sieve, it's fussy, but it saves the texture.

Amazing 5-Layer Brownie Refrigerator Cake

Description

This no-bake Brownie Refrigerator Cake is the ultimate make-ahead dessert! Featuring a fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, smooth chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a chilled, decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed, divided
2 boxes (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
Chocolate shavings or curls, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the brownie batter as directed on the box and bake. Let the brownies cool completely before adding the next layers.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until creamy.
Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer. Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth it out.
Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings or curls. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

For extra indulgence, add crushed Oreos or chopped nuts between layers!
This dessert tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, layered dessert, chocolate pudding cake, no-bake dessert, make-ahead recipe