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Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe

4.6 from 131 reviews

This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a luscious dessert that combines a classic rich brownie base with a creamy chocolate chip cream cheese topping. Baked to perfection and chilled to set, this no-fuss cake offers a perfect balance of fudgy texture and smooth, sweet creaminess. Ideal for any celebration or as an indulgent treat, it’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

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

Cream Cheese Topping

  • 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. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined smoothly. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and cocoa.
  4. Make Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the brownies.
  5. Bake Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs, indicating a fudgy texture.
  6. Cool Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan at room temperature to prepare for the topping.
  7. Prepare Filling: While cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the whipped heavy cream and half of the chocolate chips to create a fluffy topping.
  8. Assemble Cake: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top to cover the entire surface.
  9. Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the cream cheese layer for added texture and chocolate flavor.
  10. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the topping to set and flavors to meld before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the brownies are completely cool before adding the cream cheese topping to prevent melting and separation.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the topping mixture.
  • Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form to achieve a light, airy texture in the topping.
  • For an extra rich flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
  • Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Keywords: brownie refrigerator cake, cream cheese topping, chocolate chip dessert, chilled brownie cake, easy brownie recipe, dessert cake