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Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe


  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x

Description

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a rich and decadent dessert featuring a moist cocoa brownie base topped with a creamy, fluffy cream cheese and whipped heavy cream mixture studded with chocolate chips. Baked to perfection and chilled to set, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors perfect for any occasion.


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 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)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent the brownie from sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt ensuring an even distribution of leavening and cocoa.
  4. Make Brownie Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the brownies tough.
  5. Bake the Brownie: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
  6. Cool the Brownie: Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan to ensure the filling spreads evenly and does not melt.
  7. Prepare the Filling: While the brownies cool, in a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Carefully fold in the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips (about 1/4 cup), blending gently to maintain the whipped texture.
  8. Assemble the Cake: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the brownies to form the creamy layer.
  9. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer for an extra chocolatey finish and textural contrast.
  10. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from melting.
  • You can substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts for added crunch if desired.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the best texture and flavor.
  • The cake can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated for a convenient dessert option.
  • For easier slicing, dip the knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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