Mounds Cake Recipe: The Ultimate Irresistible Chocolate Coconut Delight

Mounds cake recipe is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and coconut. Inspired by the iconic Mounds candy bar, this cake offers a delicious twist with its moist cake base, creamy coconut filling, and smooth chocolate frosting. It’s a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress at any occasion.

In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through a Mounds cake recipe that’s easy to follow. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find all the tips and techniques needed to create a flawless cake every time.

History of Mounds Cake: A Sweet Connection to the Classic Candy

The Mounds cake has its roots in the famous Mounds candy bar, a treat beloved by many for its simple yet irresistible combination of dark chocolate and sweetened coconut. Introduced in 1920 by the Hershey company, Mounds bars became a household name in the U.S. over the years, offering a perfect balance of chocolate and coconut.

Inspired by the candy bar, the Mounds cake was created to replicate the same flavors in a larger, more indulgent dessert format. It features a moist chocolate cake base, a creamy coconut filling, and a glossy layer of rich chocolate frosting on top. This cake quickly became a favorite among those who love chocolate and coconut together, much like the original candy bar.

Ingredients for the Perfect Mounds Cake

To create the perfect Mounds cake, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. Each element of the cake adds something special, ensuring a flavorful dessert that will please chocolate and coconut lovers alike.

the Cake Base:

• 1 box of chocolate cake mix (or make your own from scratch)
• Eggs, oil, and water (as required by the cake mix instructions)

the Coconut Filling:

• 2 cups of sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon of butter

These ingredients come together to create the signature chocolate-coconut flavor that Mounds cake is known for. The cake base is soft and moist, the coconut filling is creamy and sweet, and the frosting is rich and indulgent.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Mounds Cake

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own Mounds cake from scratch.

Preparing the Cake Base

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans—two 9-inch round pans or a 9×13-inch pan will work well for this recipe. You can also use parchment paper to line the pans for easy removal of the cake later.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: If you’re using a box cake mix, follow the instructions on the back of the package. Usually, you’ll need to mix the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water. Use an electric mixer or whisk to combine the ingredients until smooth. If you prefer to make your cake from scratch, ensure your cake batter includes moistening ingredients like sour cream or buttermilk to keep the cake soft and tender.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re using a 9×13-inch pan, the baking time may be slightly longer, so check for doneness after 30 minutes.
4. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the coconut filling.

Making the Coconut Filling

While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the coconut filling. This filling is the key to the Mounds cake’s signature texture and flavor.

1. Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir the ingredients until the coconut is fully coated with the condensed milk.
2. Spread the Filling: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one of the cake layers on a cake plate or serving platter. Evenly spread the coconut filling over the top of the first cake layer, covering it entirely.
3. Assemble the Cake: Place the second cake layer on top of the coconut-filled layer to create a sandwich. Press down gently to ensure the layers stick together.

Preparing the Chocolate Frosting

The final step in creating your Mounds cake is making the chocolate frosting, which will top the cake and make it irresistible.

1. Heat the Cream and Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally and allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Once it starts to simmer, remove it from the heat.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the hot cream and butter mixture. Stir until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the frosting is smooth.
3. Frost the Cake: Allow the chocolate frosting to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly over the top and down the sides of the cake. The frosting should have a glossy, smooth finish.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mounds Cake

To make sure your Mounds cake turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Keep the Cake Moist: To maintain a moist texture, consider using a moist chocolate cake mix or adding ingredients like buttermilk or sour cream if you’re making the cake from scratch.
• Spread the Coconut Filling Evenly: Be sure to spread the coconut filling evenly to avoid creating lumps or gaps in the texture. This will ensure every bite has the same creamy coconut flavor.
• Cool the Cake Completely Before Frosting: Make sure the cake has cooled completely before applying the frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting into the cake and creating a messy finish.
• Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips for the frosting. The chocolate should have a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the coconut.

Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Mounds Cake

Mounds cake is an incredibly versatile dessert that can be served on many occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:

• Serve as a Special Occasion Cake: Mounds cake is perfect for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or other special celebrations. Its impressive appearance and delicious flavors are sure to delight your guests.
• Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The rich chocolate coconut combination pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The warm beverages will balance out the sweetness of the cake, creating a satisfying dessert experience.
• Add Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, top your slice of Mounds cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy addition complements the cake’s rich flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions you might have while making Mounds cake:

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use any type of chocolate cake mix that you prefer. Vanilla, devil’s food, or German chocolate cake mix can also work, depending on the flavor profile you want. Just make sure the cake base complements the coconut filling.

How can I make the cake less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness of the cake, try using unsweetened shredded coconut for the filling. You can also opt for a dark chocolate frosting instead of milk chocolate to cut down on the sweetness.

Can I freeze Mounds Cake?

Yes, Mounds cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to two months. Be sure to thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before serving.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can make a substitute by combining evaporated milk and sugar. You can also make your own version of sweetened condensed milk by simmering regular milk and sugar until it thickens.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Mounds cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best texture, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

By following these instructions and tips, you can create a perfectly delicious Mounds cake that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the best of chocolate and coconut in every bite. Enjoy your Mounds cake, and happy baking!