If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect combination of rich chocolate and luscious coconut, you are going to fall head over heels for this Mounds Cake Recipe. This dessert takes inspiration from the classic candy bar, layering moist chocolate cake with a dreamy marshmallow and coconut filling, all topped with a smooth, glossy chocolate fudge frosting. Every bite is a celebration of contrasting textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you are making this for a family gathering or a cozy night in, the Mounds Cake Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mounds Cake Recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. The ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering that irresistible taste and texture—from the moist chocolate cake base to the fluffy marshmallow and coconut center, finished off with a creamy chocolate glaze.
- 1 box chocolate cake mix: This forms the moist, rich foundation of the cake; follow package instructions for eggs, oil, and water to ensure perfect texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the marshmallow coconut layer and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly.
- 1 cup milk: Moistens the sugary marshmallow mixture and ensures it spreads nicely over the cake.
- 24 large marshmallows: Melt into a smooth, fluffy filling that mimics the classic candy bar’s creamy center.
- 1 package (14 oz) sweetened shredded coconut: Mixed with marshmallows to add chewy texture and coconut flavor.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Creates the luscious chocolate frosting with a nice balance of sweet and slightly bitter notes.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the chocolate glaze.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps melt the chocolate chips and butter together into a silky frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the chocolate frosting for perfect spreading consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth of flavor to the chocolate frosting, rounding out the sweetness beautifully.
How to Make Mounds Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
Start by preparing the chocolate cake according to the instructions on your cake mix box. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan for even baking. Once baked, let the cake cool slightly so it’s warm but not hot—this helps the marshmallow coconut layer spread perfectly without melting the cake’s surface.
Step 2: Prepare the Marshmallow Coconut Layer
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup milk. Stir gently until the sugar has dissolved completely. Toss in the 24 large marshmallows and keep stirring until they have melted into a smooth, glossy mixture. Finally, fold in the shredded coconut to create that chewy, coconut-rich filling that is simply irresistible.
Step 3: Spread the Coconut Mixture on the Cake
Pour the warm marshmallow and coconut mixture evenly over the baked chocolate cake. The warmth will help it settle in smoothly, creating a gooey, inviting layer that your Mounds Cake Recipe is famous for.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Fudge Frosting
In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, butter, and 1/4 cup milk. Stir continuously until everything melts together into a glossy, velvety chocolate sauce. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until silky smooth.
Step 5: Finish by Spreading the Chocolate Frosting
Gently pour the chocolate frosting over the coconut layer, spreading it evenly to cover every inch. Let the cake cool completely so the frosting sets into that perfect fudge-like finish that seals all those luscious flavors inside.
How to Serve Mounds Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cake is stunning on its own, a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the coconut flavor beautifully. You might also add a few whole chocolate shavings for a bit of elegance and texture that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast and a burst of color on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your Mounds Cake Recipe into bite-sized squares for a party platter or layering it in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra coconut for a deconstructed take. It’s also fantastic served warm with a drizzle of hot fudge sauce for those extra cozy dessert moments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This resting time actually helps the flavors meld, making every slice even more delicious.
Freezing
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil for freezing. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, a 15-second zap in the microwave per slice will soften the frosting just enough without melting it completely, bringing out that gooey coconut marshmallow layer perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Using your favorite scratch chocolate cake recipe will make the Mounds Cake Recipe even more special, and you can customize the flavors to your liking.
What if I’m not a fan of marshmallows?
You can substitute marshmallows with homemade marshmallow fluff or a thick coconut cream mixture, though the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, you can enjoy this dessert without gluten worries. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free labeled.
Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?
You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly in the frosting or use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet to tone down the sweetness while keeping the rich chocolate flavor.
Can I add coconut extract to enhance the flavor?
Definitely! Adding a splash of coconut extract into the marshmallow coconut layer boosts the coconut flavor, making the cake even more reminiscent of the classic Mounds candy bar.
Final Thoughts
Making the Mounds Cake Recipe is like inviting a bit of chocolate and coconut heaven into your kitchen, simple enough for any home baker but impressive enough to delight any crowd. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it becomes a go-to dessert, perfect for celebrations or just indulging in something sweet. Don’t wait to experience this mouthwatering, nostalgic treat—it’s truly a slice of pure happiness!
Print
Mounds Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mounds Cake is a decadent layered dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base topped with a luscious marshmallow and coconut filling, finished with a rich chocolate glaze. Inspired by the classic Mounds candy bar, this cake combines the perfect balance of chocolate and coconut flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus required eggs, oil, and water as per package instructions)
Coconut Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 24 large marshmallows
- 1 package (14 oz) sweetened shredded coconut
Chocolate Frosting
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare and bake cake: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package directions, including the required eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed. Once baked, let the cake cool slightly.
- Make coconut filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup milk. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the marshmallows and cook, stirring constantly, until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the shredded coconut until fully combined.
- Assemble coconut layer: Pour the warm coconut mixture evenly over the still-warm chocolate cake, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
- Prepare chocolate frosting: In another saucepan, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup milk. Stir over low heat until the mixture is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is glossy and well combined.
- Decorate the cake: Pour the chocolate frosting evenly over the coconut layer, spreading it with a spatula for a smooth finish.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. For best results, refrigerate the cake to let the layers set before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
- Add a splash of coconut extract to the coconut filling to enhance the coconut flavor.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to improve flavor melding and moisture retention.
