Indulge in this decadent layered chocolate dessert that begins with a rich brownie base, topped with a smooth cream cheese and chocolate pudding layer, and finished with a generous helping of whipped topping and extra chocolate! This is the ultimate treat for any chocolate lover, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. For another layered, chocolatey delight, be sure to try my Oreo Brownie Dessert.
Ingredients and Substitutions
This recipe features four delicious components—the brownie layer, cream cheese layer, pudding layer, and the toppings.
Brownies: When baking brownies in a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) pan, this is my go-to recipe. It’s the same one I use for my French Silk Brownies.
Cream Cheese Layer: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with other ingredients. If you forgot to take it out ahead of time (it usually takes about 30 minutes), unwrap the cream cheese and microwave it in 15-second increments until softened around the edges.
Pudding: You’ll need one box of instant chocolate pudding mix.
Whipped Cream: Whipped cream is used in both the cream cheese layer and as a topping. For the creamiest whipped topping, consider making your own!
Toppings: Drizzle with homemade chocolate syrup or use store-bought hot fudge. You can also create your own chocolate curls for an elegant finish.
How to Assemble the Brownie Pudding Dessert
Once all the components are prepared, it’s time to assemble this delightful layered dessert and chill it so everyone can enjoy it! (Remember to let the brownies cool completely before adding the layers.)
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Carefully spread the chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with additional whipped topping, chocolate curls, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Refrigerate the dessert for about 1 hour, or until ready to serve.
How to Store
To store the brownie pudding dessert, cover the container tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Can I Freeze Brownie Pudding Dessert?
Yes, you can freeze this dessert! However, it’s best to freeze it without the toppings (add those when ready to serve). Wrap the dessert in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly the longer it’s stored. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (190 g)
- ⅓ cup dark cocoa powder (40 g)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar (400 g)
- ¾ cup butter (1½ sticks), softened or at room temperature (170 g)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 package), room temperature (230 g)
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar (60 g)
- 8 ounces whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip) (230 g)
Pudding Layer
- 1 box (5.1 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix (140 g)
- 2 cups milk (480 ml)
Toppings
- 8 ounces whipped topping (230 g)
- Hot fudge sauce or chocolate syrup
- Chocolate curls or shavings
Instructions
Brownies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with non-stick spray or grease it thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer or a large bowl using a hand-held mixer, beat the large eggs, granulated sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs but no wet batter.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding.
Cream Cheese Layer
- In a medium bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and 8 ounces of whipped topping.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer.
Pudding Layer
- In another medium bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of milk (480 ml).
- Using a hand mixer, beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the pudding has thickened.
- Carefully spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Toppings
- Top the dessert with the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping.
- Garnish with chocolate curls and drizzle with hot fudge sauce or chocolate syrup.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until ready to serve.
Enjoy this decadent layered brownie pudding dessert at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving!
