Name: Mounds Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box – typically eggs, oil, and water); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup whole milk; 24 large marshmallows; 14 oz shredded sweetened coconut; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

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If you love the classic combination of rich chocolate and sweet, chewy coconut, the Mounds Cake is about to become your new obsession. Inspired by the nostalgic candy bar, this cake layers decadent chocolate cake, creamy coconut filling, and glossy chocolate frosting for an utterly irresistible dessert. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging your sweet tooth, this treat delivers all the flavors you crave in every luxurious bite. The best part? It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for any special occasion. There’s simply nothing quite like Mounds Cake to satisfy that chocolate coconut craving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple, yet each ingredient’s role is absolutely crucial. From the moist cake base to the fluffy coconut layer and that luscious chocolate glaze on top, every part plays into the final wow factor. Let’s break down what goes into making your perfect Mounds Cake.

Chocolate cake mix: The foundation of our dessert, giving us a soft, rich base and making life super easy since you’ll just prepare it as directed on the box.
Eggs, oil, and water: These go into your cake mix, ensuring the cake is moist and tender every single time.
Granulated sugar (coconut filling): Sweetens the coconut layer and helps achieve that irresistible chewy texture.
Whole milk (divided): You’ll use milk in both the coconut filling and frosting for a creamy richness that ties everything together.
Large marshmallows: Not just for s’mores! They transform your coconut mixture into an ultra-silky, sticky layer that holds beautifully.
Shredded sweetened coconut: Adds that classic coconut flavor and chewy bite, just like a Mounds bar.
Unsalted butter: Gives our frosting a smooth, rich finish with just the right amount of decadence.
Granulated sugar (frosting): Ensures your chocolate frosting sets up nicely and holds a lovely sheen.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Melt into the frosting for a glossy, chocolatey crown that takes everything over the top.

How to Make Mounds Cake

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing a 9×13-inch baking pan, either greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Prepare the chocolate cake batter as directed on your box, pour it into the pan, and bake for 30–35 minutes. You want it to be just set—a toothpick should come out clean or with only a few fudgy crumbs. Let the cake cool just slightly, but get ready for your layers while it’s still warm.

Step 2: Make the Luscious Coconut Filling

While the cake is still warm (this is key for the filling to meld beautifully), combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk, and 24 large marshmallows in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the marshmallows melt and everything blends into a thick, smooth mixture. Once there are no lumps left, take it off the heat and fold in the shredded coconut. While everything is still warm and gooey, spread this coconut layer evenly across your cake, so every bite is perfectly creamy and sweet.

Step 3: Whip Up the Chocolate Frosting

Time to crown the cake! In a small saucepan, stir together 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup milk. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring, then let it bubble for one minute. Remove from the heat and immediately stir in the chocolate chips. Keep stirring until the chips are fully melted and your frosting is glossy and completely smooth. Pour this deliciousness over the coconut layer, using a spatula to spread it all the way to the edges.

Step 4: Let Your Mounds Cake Set

Patience pays off here. Allow the cake to cool completely—if you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the fridge to speed things along. As it cools, the layers will set into gorgeous, sliceable perfection. For best results, let it come back to room temperature before serving so the texture of each layer really shines.

How to Serve Mounds Cake

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra shredded coconut across the glossy chocolate top makes your Mounds Cake look (and taste) even more irresistible. If you want to add a hint of elegance, try a handful of toasted coconut flakes or a few curls of dark chocolate for a finishing touch that’s bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

This cake is a showstopper on its own, but if you love a contrast, a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream alongside your slice is nothing short of dreamy. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or even a few fresh berries on the side, helps balance the cake’s richness and makes each serving feel extra-special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, cut the Mounds Cake into small bars or squares and set them on a platter—perfect for dessert tables or potlucks. Individually wrap bars in wax paper for grab-and-go treats, or layer neat squares in cupcake liners for a polished look at showers or birthday gatherings. However you serve it, the striking contrast of chocolate and coconut is sure to steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

One of the best things about Mounds Cake is how well it keeps. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days—the flavors actually deepen and meld as it sits.

Freezing

If you want to stash some treats for later, Mounds Cake freezes surprisingly well. Cut into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a slice, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

While Mounds Cake is delicious cold or at room temperature, if you’d like to enjoy it slightly warm (and make the coconut extra gooey), pop a slice in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. The layers will soften slightly, highlighting all those comforting flavors. Just be careful not to overheat—the frosting should be silky, not runny.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe, go for it. The boxed mix just makes things speedy, but a scratch-made cake will taste fantastic and add a personal touch to your Mounds Cake.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, with a few easy swaps! Replace the milk with your favorite non-dairy alternative and use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil in place of butter. Just be mindful to double-check the ingredient labels on your chocolate chips and other boxed ingredients.

Does the cake need to be refrigerated?

It’s not strictly necessary unless your kitchen is very warm. If you want to keep it extra fresh, refrigerating is a great idea, especially if you plan to enjoy your Mounds Cake over several days. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Certainly! Chopped almonds or toasted pecans stirred into the coconut layer or sprinkled on top of the frosting would be a delicious twist, especially if you’re a fan of the Almond Joy style. Just keep them in moderation so the classic Mounds Cake flavors still shine.

How do I get clean, neat slices?

The key is to let your Mounds Cake cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife, and wipe the blade between cuts for perfect squares or bars. If you chilled the cake, bring it back toward room temperature before slicing to avoid cracking the frosting.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you grab the chance to try this Mounds Cake recipe. With its luscious layers and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s one of those easy desserts that never fails to impress. Whether for a special occasion or just because you’re craving chocolate and coconut, this cake always hits the sweet spot. Enjoy every bite!

Mounds Cake Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12–15 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent layers of chocolate cake, sweet coconut filling, and rich chocolate frosting in this irresistible Mounds Cake recipe. A perfect dessert for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

For the chocolate cake:

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box – typically eggs, oil, and water)

For the coconut filling:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup whole milk
24 large marshmallows
14 oz shredded sweetened coconut

For the chocolate frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

Prepare the chocolate cake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Make the chocolate cake batter as per package directions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
Make the coconut filling: Combine sugar, milk, and marshmallows in a saucepan. Add coconut once melted. Spread over the warm cake.
Prepare the chocolate frosting: Boil butter, sugar, and milk. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips. Pour over the coconut layer.
Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.