This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust.

Craving a decadent dessert without turning on the oven? This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is your answer! Layers of fudgy brownie, creamy filling, and rich chocolate ganache make this an irresistible treat, perfect for any occasion. This no-bake wonder is easy to assemble and will impress everyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Brownie Refrigerator Cake

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Here are some reasons why you’ll absolutely adore it:

No baking required – ideal for hot days!
Decadent layers of brownie, cream, and ganache.
Easy to assemble, even for beginners.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special treat.
Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies every sweet tooth.
Make-ahead dessert – prepare it the day before!
Easily customizable to suit your taste.
Less mess than traditional baked cakes!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Brownie Refrigerator Cake. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples!

For the Brownie Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (113g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (45g)
1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)

For the best brownie layer, use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. Ensure the butter is properly softened so that it creams well with the sugar.

For the Cream Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226g)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream (360ml)

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form for a stable and luscious cream layer.

For the Chocolate Ganache:

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (113g)
1/2 cup heavy cream (120ml)

Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate for a glossy and smooth ganache. Chop the chocolate finely to ensure it melts evenly when the warm cream is poured over it.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies – A delightful twist combining the best of both worlds!

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes creating this Brownie Refrigerator Cake a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

- 8-inch square baking pan: For baking the perfect brownie base.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing each layer separately.
- Electric mixer: To cream the butter and sugar and whip the cream.
- Whisk: For smoothing out the chocolate ganache.

Chocolate brownie refrigerator cake slices stacked.

Rubber spatula: To gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key for baking success!
Saucepan: For heating the cream for the chocolate ganache.

Recipe Details

Get a quick overview of the Brownie Refrigerator Cake recipe:

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (includes refrigeration)
Servings: 9
Difficulty: Easy

Scale the recipe up for a crowd or halve it for a smaller gathering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your own stunning Brownie Refrigerator Cake!

Make the Brownie Layer

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan to prevent sticking.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Whisk in cocoa and salt: Whisk in the cocoa powder and salt until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
Beat in eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Add flour: Gradually add the flour and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Bake the brownie: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with fudgy crumbs.
Cool completely: Let the brownie cool completely in the pan before adding the next layer. This is crucial for preventing the cream filling from melting.

Prepare the Cream Filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Stir in vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Whip heavy cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will give your filling a light and airy texture.
Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Be gentle to avoid deflating the whipped cream.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

Place chocolate in a bowl: Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
Heat heavy cream: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
Pour cream over chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit for 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
Whisk until smooth: Whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy. If there are any unmelted pieces, microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.

Assemble the Cake

Spread cream filling: Once the brownie layer has cooled completely, spread the cream filling evenly over the top.
Pour chocolate ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the cream filling and spread evenly.
Refrigerate: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to set.
Cut and serve: Cut into squares and serve cold. Enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Mint Chip Brownies – Another fantastic brownie recipe to try!

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Brownie Refrigerator Cake turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t overbake the brownie: A slightly fudgy brownie is better than a dry one.
Soften ingredients: Make sure the butter and cream cheese are properly softened for a smooth and lump-free mixture.
Chill time is crucial: Don’t rush the refrigeration process. It allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
Use good quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the ganache will taste.
Cut with a warm knife: For clean cuts, warm your knife under hot water and dry it before each slice.

Burnt brownie base? Lower the oven temperature by 25°F and check the brownie a few minutes earlier next time.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize this Brownie Refrigerator Cake to your liking with these delicious variations:

Peanut Butter Cup: Add a layer of peanut butter cups between the brownie and cream filling.
Oreo: Crush Oreo cookies and mix them into the cream filling for an Oreo-inspired treat.
Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cream filling and use dark chocolate for the ganache.
Vegan Version: Use vegan butter, plant-based cream cheese, and dairy-free chocolate to make a vegan-friendly version.

Consider adding a layer of raspberry jam for a fruity twist!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Brownie Refrigerator Cake

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

Coffee or Tea: Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea to complement the rich chocolate flavor.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a creamy contrast to the cake.
Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

This cake is a perfect dessert for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Serve chilled for the best experience!

Health Benefits

While this Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

Cocoa: Contains antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage.
Dairy: Provides calcium and vitamin D for strong bones.
Energy: Offers a good source of energy from carbohydrates and fats.

Remember, moderation is key! Enjoy this delicious treat as part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Brownie Refrigerator Cake to maintain its deliciousness:

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze individual slices of the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
Reheating: This cake is best served cold, so no reheating is required! If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Ensure the cake is fully cooled before storing it to prevent condensation and maintain its texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Brownie Refrigerator Cake:

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, but the baking time may vary. A larger pan will result in a thinner brownie layer, so check it frequently.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate or dark chocolate can be used depending on your preference. Adjust the sweetness accordingly.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the brownie layer. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid a soggy brownie layer?

Ensure the brownie layer is completely cooled before adding the cream filling. This will prevent the moisture from the cream from seeping into the brownie.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the approximate nutritional information per serving of this Brownie Refrigerator Cake:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrate: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Total Sugars: 25g
Protein: 5g

Exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

More Decadent Delights: Recipes You’ll Adore

Craving more sweet treats? Explore these other delectable recipes:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies – The perfect fusion of two classic desserts!
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies – A stunning combination of flavors and textures.
Mint Chip Brownies – A refreshing and chocolatey delight.

Conclusion

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is an easy, impressive dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite. With layers of fudgy brownie, creamy filling, and rich chocolate ganache, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whip it up today—tag us with your masterpiece!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

Brownie Refrigerator Cake