Mounds Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that brings together the silky richness of chocolate with the sweet, tropical allure of coconut, then a Mounds Cake Recipe might just become your new go-to indulgence. Inspired by the classic Mounds candy bar, this cake pays homage to its beloved flavors—namely chocolate and coconut—in a way that’s equal parts nostalgic and modern. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.

Think of this cake as a multi-layered experience: moist chocolate layers, a creamy coconut filling that instantly transports you to a beach getaway, and a luscious chocolate topping that seals in all the decadent goodness. Over the years, Mounds Cake recipes have become popular for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, and casual get-togethers because they elegantly merge two flavors people adore: chocolate and coconut. Whether you’re celebrating a family milestone or simply want to treat yourself on a quiet evening, this delightful cake is guaranteed to impress.

In this detailed guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to create a perfect Mounds Cake in your own kitchen. From selecting the best cocoa powder for a bold, chocolatey base, to revealing the simple secrets behind a creamy coconut filling, I’ve got you covered. We’ll also talk about essential techniques—like achieving that moist, tender crumb in your chocolate cake layers and avoiding pitfalls such as overbaking. Additionally, I’ll discuss the best ways to store the cake, serve it, and incorporate a few helpful notes to make your baking process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Whether you’re a chocolate fanatic, a coconut lover, or simply someone who appreciates an unforgettable dessert, this Mounds Cake will not disappoint. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to bake a showstopping cake that will leave your friends and family begging for seconds. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Chocolate and Coconut: The Mounds candy bar is all about that harmony between rich chocolate and sweet coconut. This cake emulates that pairing by infusing each layer with distinct flavors that complement one another, resulting in every bite being a symphony of textures and tastes.

2. Straightforward Ingredients: You might expect a decadent cake like this to rely on a multitude of fancy, hard-to-find items. However, that’s not the case. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples—think flour, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and coconut flakes. Nothing is overly complicated, so you can put this cake together without an extra trip to a specialty store.

3. Beginner-Friendly Method: Even if this is your first time working with a layered cake, the Mounds Cake remains a viable option. The baking steps are relatively basic, and by following the detailed instructions provided, you’ll be able to conquer each phase—from mixing the batter to layering the filling—without stress or confusion.

4. Impressively Moist and Fluffy: Thanks to the addition of key ingredients like buttermilk (or a suitable substitute), your chocolate cake layers turn out wonderfully moist. Meanwhile, the coconut filling adds that ultra-pleasing contrast in both flavor and texture, making every forkful a highlight.

5. Crowd-Pleaser for Many Occasions: Whether it’s a potluck, a birthday party, or a holiday gathering, a homemade Mounds Cake almost always steals the show. Its combination of colors and flavors makes it photograph-ready for special occasions, plus it’s a festive treat people of all ages can enjoy.

6. Adaptable Toppings and Finishes: The finishing touches are up to you. If you’d like to drizzle a chocolate ganache over the top or garnish with toasted coconut flakes, go for it! This cake’s flexible nature means you can elevate its presentation without adding too much extra work to your baking process.

7. Lasting Freshness and Convenience: It’s not one of those recipes you have to eat immediately or else it spoils. With the right storage tips (which we’ll cover below), you can easily enjoy leftover slices for days. That means you’ll have multiple opportunities to savor it—or share it—without losing any of the wonderful taste or texture.

All these reasons—and more—will hopefully encourage you to try your hand at creating this mouthwatering dessert. Now, let’s proceed by examining the ingredients that form the foundation of this decadent cake.

Ingredients

Before diving into the actual baking process, it’s important to gather all your ingredients and understand each one’s role in creating this sumptuous Mounds Cake. The list below includes everything you’ll need for both the cake layers and the coconut filling. Keep in mind that fresh, high-quality ingredients will always yield the best results, so use the best cocoa powder you can find and opt for fresh eggs whenever possible.

For the Chocolate Cake

1. All-Purpose Flour (3 cups / approx. 375g)
   This forms the structural backbone of the cake. Opt for a reliable brand that offers consistent results.
2. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (¾ cup / approx. 75g)
   Cocoa powder gives your cake its deep chocolate flavor. A high-quality, Dutch-processed cocoa powder often provides a more robust chocolate profile and helps neutralize acidity.
3. Granulated Sugar (2 cups / approx. 400g)
   Sweetens the cake and also adds moisture when combined with butter, oil, or other wet ingredients.
4. Baking Powder (1½ teaspoons)
   Helps the cake rise, providing a lighter, fluffier crumb.
5. Baking Soda (1½ teaspoons)
   Works alongside the baking powder to create lift and tenderness in your cake layers.
6. Salt (1 teaspoon)
   A subtle way to bring out the sweetness and depth of flavor in your cake.
7. Buttermilk (1½ cups)
   Buttermilk is a game-changer for moistness and tenderness. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with one tablespoon of white vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes before use.
8. Vegetable Oil (½ cup)
   Provides moisture and helps keep the cake tender for several days.
9. Eggs (3 large)
   Bind the ingredients together, add richness, and contribute to the cake’s structure.
10. Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)
    Enhances all the flavors and adds a lovely aroma to your cake.
11. Hot Water (1 cup)
    Adding hot water (or even hot coffee, if you want a deeper chocolate flavor) helps bloom the cocoa powder, amplifying the chocolatey taste.

For the Coconut Filling

1. Shredded Coconut (2 cups)
   Unsweetened or sweetened coconut works here, depending on your preference. Sweetened coconut lends a more candy-like taste, while unsweetened coconut allows the natural flavors to shine through.
2. Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can / approx. 14 oz)
   Adds sweetness and helps bind the coconut together into a creamy filling.
3. Softened Butter (4 tablespoons)
   Contributes a bit of richness and a smoother consistency to the coconut layer.
4. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
   Infuses the filling with a comforting aroma that pairs well with coconut.

Optional Toppings

• Chocolate Ganache or Glaze (made with chocolate chips and heavy cream)
• Toasted Coconut Flakes for added crunch and a decorative finish
• Chocolate Shavings for a gourmet touch
• Fresh Whipped Cream if you prefer a lighter topping instead of ganache

With all your ingredients ready, it’s time to begin the fun part—assembling and baking this delightful Mounds Cake.

How to Make Mounds Cake Recipe

Preparing a multi-layer dessert can sometimes feel overwhelming, but this recipe is designed to be approachable, even for novice bakers. If you carefully follow each step, you’ll be well on your way to a showstopping cake. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to execute each stage, from mixing the batter to layering the coconut filling.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pans

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Make sure your rack is in the middle position to ensure even baking.
2. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. You can lightly coat them with cooking spray or butter, followed by a dusting of cocoa powder to prevent sticking. Lining the bottom with parchment paper also makes cake removal much smoother.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This helps avoid pockets of unincorporated leavening agents in your batter.
2. Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. This space will hold your wet ingredients, making the mixing process simpler and more efficient.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until everything is well blended.
2. Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry mixture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on low speed if you want a more uniform batter, or simply whisk by hand until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Add Hot Water (or Coffee)

1. Slowly pour in the hot water (1 cup) while mixing the batter. This is crucial because the hot liquid helps bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor.
2. Continue to stir until no lumps remain, and you have a consistent, liquid-like batter. Don’t be alarmed if it seems runnier than typical cake batters—this is exactly how you want it for a moist, tender crumb.

Step 5: Divide and Bake

1. Evenly divide the cake batter between your two prepared pans.
2. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
3. Transfer the pans to the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each layer comes out clean.
4. Remove the pans from the oven and place them on a cooling rack. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
5. Gently invert the layers onto the rack to cool completely before moving on to the assembly stage. Letting them cool fully ensures that the filling won’t melt or slide off.

Step 6: Prepare the Coconut Filling

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until you achieve a thick, uniform consistency.
2. Taste-test for sweetness and adjust if necessary. You can add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This step makes it easier to spread the filling without it oozing off the cake layers.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first cooled chocolate cake layer on a cake board or serving plate. Use a serrated knife if you need to level the top so it’s flat.
2. Generously spread half of the coconut filling on top, pushing it outward to the edges to create an even layer.
3. Place the second cake layer on top of the filling. Press down gently to make sure everything is secure and level.
4. Spread the remaining coconut filling on top of the second layer if you like that coconut-forward presentation. Alternatively, you can reserve the remaining filling for in-between the layers only and apply a chocolate topping on the outside.

Step 8: Add Your Optional Toppings

1. For a quick chocolate ganache: Heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just simmering. Pour the hot cream over 1 cup of chocolate chips, let it sit for a minute, and then stir until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
2. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the ganache if you’d like a crunchy, toasted garnish.
3. Refrigerate the cake if your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you prefer a firmer consistency before slicing and serving.

At this stage, you’ve got a layered masterpiece that’s loaded with coconut filling and topped with all the chocolate goodness your heart desires!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Room Temperature or Chilled: This Mounds Cake is delicious straight out of the fridge, but letting it rest at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes brings out its flavors more vividly.
• Slice with a Hot Knife: Achieve cleaner slices by running your knife under hot water, then wiping it off before cutting. This is especially helpful if you’ve used ganache or have a thick coconut layer.
• Pairing Options: Serve a slice of Mounds Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between warm chocolate notes and a cool, creamy side can be irresistible.
• Dress It Up for Special Occasions: Add a few berries for color, or garnish each slice with a small square of dark chocolate. A sprig of mint can also add a refreshing aroma and aesthetic appeal.

Storage Guidelines

1. At Room Temperature (Short-Term): If your kitchen is not too warm, you can keep the Mounds Cake at room temperature for up to 2 days under a cake dome or in an airtight container. This works especially well if the topping is not overly perishable, like whipped cream.
2. In the Refrigerator (Longer Freshness): If you’ve used a ganache topping or you live in a warmer climate, store the cake in the refrigerator, well-covered or in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to 4–5 days.
3. Freezing for Future Enjoyment: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. The cake can remain fresh for up to 2–3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight.

Storing your cake properly ensures it retains its flavor and moistness, so you can savor every last crumb. Learn how to store and freeze cakes here: How to Store and Freeze Cakes.

Helpful Notes

1. Hot Coffee Trick: If you enjoy a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor, consider substituting the hot water with hot coffee. The result is a richer, more complex cake that pairs exceptionally well with the coconut.
2. Egg Temperature: Using room-temperature eggs allows for better emulsification when mixing the wet ingredients. This can lead to a smoother batter and a more even rise during baking.
3. Coconut Variations: You can easily modify the sweetness level of the coconut filling by switching between sweetened and unsweetened coconut. If you only have unsweetened coconut on hand but want a sweeter filling, add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar or honey.
4. Filling Texture: If your coconut filling seems too thick to spread, simply stir in a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add additional shredded coconut, a tablespoon at a time.
5. Make Ahead: If you’re planning to serve this cake for a special occasion and want to save time, feel free to bake the cake layers a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap once they’ve fully cooled. Prepare the coconut filling on the day of assembly to ensure maximum freshness.
6. Cake Decorating Tools: A rotating cake stand and an offset spatula can make the layering and decorating process smoother. These are not mandatory, but they can significantly enhance the final presentation.
7. Allergies and Dietary Preferences:
   • Gluten-Free: You can use a gluten-free flour blend specifically formulated for baking if you need a gluten-free version.
   • Dairy-Free: Swap the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk alternative plus a tablespoon of vinegar, and use a dairy-free butter substitute for the filling and ganache if needed.

By paying attention to these helpful notes, you’ll find the entire baking and assembly process more enjoyable, while also having the flexibility to personalize the recipe to your tastes or dietary requirements.

Conclusion

From its fluffy, deeply flavored chocolate layers to the sweet, indulgent coconut filling, this Mounds Cake captures the essence of a classic candy bar while presenting it in a delightfully sophisticated cake form. The recipe itself is designed to be foolproof, offering straightforward steps that guide you from mixing the batter to applying the final toppings. Whether you’re baking it for a birthday, a potluck, a festive holiday, or simply as a treat-yourself dessert, it’s bound to become a memorable dish that garners rave reviews from everyone who tastes it.

Moreover, its versatility allows you to experiment with decorations and garnishes—chocolate ganache, toasted coconut flakes, or even fresh fruit can all accentuate the flavor profile. Don’t shy away from making this recipe your own by adding personal touches. Perhaps try a flavored whipped cream, incorporate a coffee drizzle, or substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract to add a subtle twist.

Baking at home is not only a way to create delicious treats, but also an opportunity to connect with those who matter to you. Sharing a homemade cake can be a genuine expression of care and love. With this Mounds Cake Recipe, you’ll be able to offer something truly special: the rich intensity of chocolate balanced by a luscious coconut filling that brings a taste of tropical sweetness to your kitchen. Enjoy every slice!

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Mounds Cake Recipe

Rebecca Blumer

Discover the ultimate Mounds Cake Recipe, combining rich chocolate and sweet coconut layers for a decadent dessert that's perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Slices

Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chocolate Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups buttermilk or substitute: 1½ cups milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water or hot coffee for a deeper flavor

For the Coconut Filling

• 2 cups shredded coconut sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference
• 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 4 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

• Chocolate ganache made with 1 cup chocolate chips and ½ cup heavy cream
• Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
• Chocolate shavings optional

Instructions

 

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pans

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Make sure your rack is in the middle position to ensure even baking.
• Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. You can lightly coat them with cooking spray or butter, followed by a dusting of cocoa powder to prevent sticking. Lining the bottom with parchment paper also makes cake removal much smoother.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This helps avoid pockets of unincorporated leavening agents in your batter.
• Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. This space will hold your wet ingredients, making the mixing process simpler and more efficient.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until everything is well blended.
• Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry mixture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on low speed if you want a more uniform batter, or simply whisk by hand until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Add Hot Water (or Coffee)

• Slowly pour in the hot water (1 cup) while mixing the batter. This is crucial because the hot liquid helps bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor.
• Continue to stir until no lumps remain, and you have a consistent, liquid-like batter. Don’t be alarmed if it seems runnier than typical cake batters—this is exactly how you want it for a moist, tender crumb.

Step 5: Divide and Bake

• Evenly divide the cake batter between your two prepared pans.
• Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
• Transfer the pans to the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each layer comes out clean.
• Remove the pans from the oven and place them on a cooling rack. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
• Gently invert the layers onto the rack to cool completely before moving on to the assembly stage. Letting them cool fully ensures that the filling won’t melt or slide off.

Step 6: Prepare the Coconut Filling

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until you achieve a thick, uniform consistency.
• Taste-test for sweetness and adjust if necessary. You can add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.
• Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This step makes it easier to spread the filling without it oozing off the cake layers.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

• Place the first cooled chocolate cake layer on a cake board or serving plate. Use a serrated knife if you need to level the top so it’s flat.
• Generously spread half of the coconut filling on top, pushing it outward to the edges to create an even layer.
• Place the second cake layer on top of the filling. Press down gently to make sure everything is secure and level.
• Spread the remaining coconut filling on top of the second layer if you like that coconut-forward presentation. Alternatively, you can reserve the remaining filling for in-between the layers only and apply a chocolate topping on the outside.

Step 8: Add Your Optional Toppings

• For a quick chocolate ganache: Heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just simmering. Pour the hot cream over 1 cup of chocolate chips, let it sit for a minute, and then stir until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the ganache if you’d like a crunchy, toasted garnish.
• Refrigerate the cake if your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you prefer a firmer consistency before slicing and serving.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 240mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 40g
• Protein: 6g

 

Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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Explore these recipes today to bring more exciting flavors to your table and make every meal memorable!

FAQs

By now, you should have every detail you need to create a delicious Mounds Cake that highlights the irresistible flavor combination of chocolate and coconut. From the introductory tips to the helpful notes, these instructions aim to make your baking journey enjoyable and successful. Feel free to get creative, explore variations, and most importantly—have fun baking and sharing your masterpiece with family and friends!