Vintage Brownie Surprise Cake
This Vintage Brownie Surprise Cake is a nostalgic delight! A fluffy white cake layered with rich fudgy brownies and creamy cream cheese frosting – perfect for any celebration.
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
Cake and Brownie Mixes
- 1 box white cake mix plus eggs, oil, and water as per box instructions
- 1 box brownie mix 9x13-inch pan size, prepared as directed
Additions for Brownie Layer
- 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate broken into pieces
- 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk about half of a 14-ounce can
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese at room temperature
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter 1 stick, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 0.25 cup milk
Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Layer
- Preheat oven according to brownie mix instructions. Prepare brownie batter as directed, stirring in semi-sweet chocolate pieces and sweetened condensed milk. Pour into greased 9x13-inch pan and bake until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely on a rack.
Bake the White Cake
- Prepare white cake mix as per package directions. Pour batter into greased pan(s). Bake until light golden and toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely, then slice horizontally if desired for thinner layers.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add milk slowly to reach spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on serving platter. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Place cooled brownie layer over frosting, pressing gently. Add another layer of frosting, then top with remaining cake layer. Frost top and sides smoothly.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to let layers set and frosting firm up. This helps achieve clean slices and better texture.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer or Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cooling Rack
- Knife or cake leveler
Notes
- Ensure the brownie layer is completely cooled before assembling to prevent melting the frosting.
- Add milk gradually to the frosting to avoid making it too thin.
- Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smooth and lump-free frosting.
- Store cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to a month.
- Slice the cake with a sharp, warm knife for neat edges.