Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delightful no-fuss dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy, dreamy filling. It’s perfect for gatherings or a special treat when you want something indulgent but easy to prepare.

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) and grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
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, then stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
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 gently until just combined.
Step 6: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Step 8: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before proceeding.
Step 9: While the brownies cool, prepare the filling by beating together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 10: Fold the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 11: Once the brownies are fully cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
Step 12: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the filling.
Step 13: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter.
You can substitute half the chocolate chips with chopped nuts for added texture.
Use whipped cream cheese or lightly whip the cream cheese before mixing for a lighter filling.
If you prefer, decorate the top with fresh berries instead of chocolate chips for a fruity contrast.

Storage

Store the Brownie Refrigerator Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, slice and serve chilled. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually benefits from resting in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight, which helps the filling set and flavors to develop.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you prefer, mascarpone or ricotta cheese can be used for a slightly different but delicious creamy filling.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 65 reviews

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delicious no-bake dessert featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy sweetened cream cheese and whipped cream layer, finished with chocolate chips. The cake is chilled to set, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert that combines the indulgence of brownies with a light, creamy topping.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

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

Cream Cheese Filling

1 package cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
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 lightly flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.
Make brownie batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Bake the brownies: Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare cream cheese filling: While the brownies cool, in a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Fold in whipped cream and chocolate chips: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture to create a light and fluffy filling.
Assemble cake: Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the top of the brownie layer.
Garnish and chill: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set before slicing and serving.

Notes

Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the cream cheese topping to prevent melting.
You can substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts or other toppings if preferred.
For easier slicing, chill the cake overnight and use a sharp knife warmed under hot water.
This dessert can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance the flavors.
Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for best texture and flavor.

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, cream cheese topping, no-bake dessert, chocolate chip dessert, easy brownie recipe