Brownie Refrigerator Cake
This decadent Brownie Refrigerator Cake is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers! With layers of fudgy brownies, rich chocolate mousse, and a luscious whipped cream topping, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering. The best part? It requires no baking once the brownies are made, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients:
Brownie Layer:
- 1 box of brownie mix (or homemade brownies using your favorite recipe)
- Ingredients listed on the box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
Chocolate Mousse Layer:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Fresh berries
- Chopped nuts
Instructions:
Prepare the Brownie Layer:
- Bake the brownies according to package instructions or your favorite recipe.
- Allow them to cool completely, then cut them into small squares or rectangles for easy layering.
Make the Chocolate Mousse:
- Melt the chocolate chips with ½ cup of heavy whipping cream over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the melted chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until well combined and fluffy.
Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Cake:
- In a 9×13-inch dish, layer half of the brownie squares at the bottom.
- Spread half of the chocolate mousse over the brownie layer.
- Repeat with the remaining brownies and mousse.
- Top the cake with the prepared whipped cream.
- Smooth out the whipped cream with a spatula for an even layer.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings, berries, or nuts, if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Servings:
- 12-16 servings (depending on portion size)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
(Approximate values for 1 serving out of 12)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 33g
- Protein: 4g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.
Description and Notes:
- This Brownie Refrigerator Cake is a no-bake layered dessert that combines fudgy brownies, rich chocolate mousse, and fluffy whipped cream.
- It’s perfect for parties, birthdays, or just a weekend treat.
- The cake needs to be refrigerated to set properly, which also enhances the melding of flavors.
- You can make this dessert a day in advance, making it convenient for entertaining.
Tips:
- For the Best Texture: Use high-quality chocolate for the mousse layer to achieve a smooth and velvety consistency.
- Make-Ahead Option: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, so don’t hesitate to prepare it a day in advance.
- Customization: Add layers of fruit like sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Serving Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Benefits:
- Convenience: This is a no-bake dessert after the brownies are made, making it hassle-free for busy schedules.
- Versatility: Easily customizable with different garnishes or by adding fruit layers.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It serves a large group, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Q/A:
Q: Can I use store-bought brownies?
A: Absolutely! Using store-bought brownies saves time and makes this dessert even easier to assemble.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: How long can I store the cake?
A: It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze it without the whipped cream topping for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and add the whipped cream before serving.
Q: Can I add other flavors to the mousse?
A: Certainly! You can add a teaspoon of coffee liqueur or a pinch of instant espresso powder for a mocha twist.
Enjoy this deliciously indulgent Brownie Refrigerator Cake and make any occasion memorable with its rich, layered chocolatey goodness!