Dessert

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

Name: Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 package cream cheese, softened (approx. 8 oz); 0.5 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup heavy cream, whipped; 0.5 cup chocolate chips, divided (1/4 cup for filling, 1/4 cup for topping)

ByLily Cross February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

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Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious no-fuss dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy, dreamy topping. Perfectly chilled and studded with chocolate chips, it’s an indulgent treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

A close-up of a square layered dessert on a white plate, showing four visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark, crumbly chocolate base, followed by a thick white creamy layer, then a thinner smooth chocolate layer, topped with a fluffy white whipped cream layer. On top of the whipped cream are scattered dark chocolate shavings and chunks, adding texture and richness. The dessert is cut cleanly, exposing the contrast between the dark and light layers, with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together melted butter and granulated sugar.
Step 3: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Spread 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 brownies cool completely in the pan.
Step 9: While brownies cool, prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 10: Fold in whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips.
Step 11: Once brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
Step 12: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top.
Step 13: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter and filling.
For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter.
Swap half of the cocoa powder with instant espresso powder for a subtle coffee flavor.
Use mini chocolate chips in the topping for more even distribution.

Storage

Store the Brownie Refrigerator Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve to maintain the creamy topping’s texture. Leftovers can be gently reheated at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, but best enjoyed cold.