Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

Introduction

Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a delightful no-fuss dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy, fluffy topping. Perfect for parties or a special treat, this cake chills in the fridge to set into a luscious, chocolatey delight that’s easy to slice and serve.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prepare for the brownie batter.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to evenly combine the dry ingredients.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
6. Step 6: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs.
7. Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding the topping.
8. Step 8: To make the filling, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
9. Step 9: Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips until well combined.
10. Step 10: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
11. Step 11: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top for added texture and flavor.
12. Step 12: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow it to set before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the richest, creamiest topping.
• Try adding a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the brownie batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Swap half of the chocolate chips for chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• If you prefer, add a layer of fresh berries between the brownies and cream cheese topping for some fruity contrast.

Storage

Store the brownie refrigerator cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, serve chilled. Leftovers can be gently reheated at room temperature for about 15 minutes if you prefer a softer bite, but avoid microwaving as it may melt the topping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pan size to bake the brownies?

Yes, you can use a similar-sized baking dish, but the baking time may vary. Thicker batter may require a longer bake, so check with a toothpick for doneness.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake before serving?

Yes, refrigeration allows the cream cheese topping to firm up and the flavors to meld, making the cake easier to slice and more delicious.

Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 84 reviews

This luscious Brownie Refrigerator Cake combines rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy chocolate chip cream cheese topping. Baked brownies are layered with a smooth, sweetened cream cheese and whipped cream mixture, studded with chocolate chips, then chilled to set. It’s an easy no-fuss dessert perfect for any occasion that offers a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Cream Cheese Filling

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
• 0.5 cup chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent the brownies from sticking.
2. Mix the 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. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and cocoa.
4. Make the Brownie Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing and tough brownies.
5. Bake the Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for fudgy brownies.
6. Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Cooling is important before adding the creamy topping so it sets properly.
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream along with half of the chocolate chips to add texture and flavor.
8. Assemble the Cake: Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the brownie layer.
9. Add Chocolate Chips Topping: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the cream cheese layer for a decorative and tasty finish.
10. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set. Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Do not overbake the brownies to maintain a moist and fudgy texture.
• For a quicker cool down, place the brownies on a wire rack after baking.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
• This cake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Brownie Refrigerator Cake, cream cheese brownies, chocolate chip dessert, chilled brownie cake, easy brownie recipe