Delicious Mounds Cake Recipe – Easy & Homemade

Every home baker dreams of making a dessert that turns a simple moment into something special. My adventure with this homemade Mounds cake recipe started on a crisp autumn afternoon. I wanted to bring the beloved candy bar’s flavors to life in a stunning cake.

This easy dessert recipe mixes the deep taste of chocolate with the tropical sweetness of coconut. It’s a dessert that’s both familiar and indulgent. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this Mounds cake recipe will become a family favorite.

Imagine cutting into a rich chocolate cake with creamy coconut filling and smooth chocolate frosting. That’s the magic we’re about to make together in this mounds cake recipe.

Key Takeaways

• Perfect blend of chocolate and coconut flavors
• Easy to follow step-by-step instructions
• Uses convenient Devil’s Food Cake Mix as base
• Suitable for bakers of all skill levels
• Can be prepared in just over an hour
• Versatile dessert for various occasions

Understanding the Magic of Mounds Cake

The Mounds cake recipe is a journey that turns a classic candy bar into a unique chocolate cake. My love for baking made me dive into its rich history and special taste.

The tale of this coconut cake starts with the Mounds candy bar, launched in 1920. This iconic treat inspired bakers to make a chocolate cake that brings the original’s essence to life.

History of Mounds Candy Bar Inspiration

The Mounds candy bar changed dessert making by mixing dark chocolate and shredded coconut. Bakers saw the chance to turn this candy bar idea into a full cake that would thrill dessert fans.

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet coconut
• Inspired by the classic candy bar flavor profile
• Combines familiar ingredients in an innovative way
• Offers a nostalgic taste experience

Key Flavor Components

The magic of this cake is in its flavors. The deep chocolate cake is the base for the sweet coconut filling. Each bite mixes chocolate’s richness with coconut’s tropical sweetness, honoring the Mounds candy bar.

By understanding the flavors’ balance, home bakers can make this beloved dessert. It turns a simple candy bar into a remarkable culinary adventure.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mounds Cake Recipe

To make the ultimate baked treats, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients bring out the rich flavors of a coconut lovers cake. Let’s explore the key components that make an ordinary coconut chocolate cake into a delicious masterpiece.

Mounds Cake Recipe

Delicious homemade mounds cake recipe that combines rich chocolate, coconut filling, and creamy frosting. Perfect for coconut lovers and special occasions.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 678 kcal

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan 
• Mixing Bowls
• Electric mixer 
• Spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl 
• Refrigerator

Ingredients

  

For the Cake:

• 1 15.25-ounce box devil’s food cake mix 
• 4 large eggs 
• 1 cup milk 
• ½ cup vegetable oil 

For the Coconut Filling:

• 1 14-ounce bag sweetened flaked coconut 
• 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk 
• 1 cup powdered sugar 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips 
• ½ cup heavy cream 

Optional Garnish:

• Toasted shredded coconut 

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. 

Prepare the Cake Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the devil’s food cake mix, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. 
• Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Prepare the Coconut Filling:

• In a medium bowl, mix together the sweetened flaked coconut, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. 

Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cake has cooled, spread the coconut filling evenly over the top. 
• Refrigerate the cake to set the filling while preparing the ganache.

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
• Add the semisweet chocolate chips to the hot cream. Let sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. 

Top the Cake with Ganache:

• Remove the cake from the refrigerator.
• Pour the chocolate ganache over the coconut filling, spreading it evenly with a spatula. 

Optional Garnish:

• For added texture and flavor, toast additional shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Sprinkle over the ganache before it sets. 

Set and Serve:

• Refrigerate the cake until the ganache is firm.
• Once set, slice the cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 678 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 90g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 70g

Keyword chocolate cake, coconut dessert, homemade cake, layered cake, Mounds candy bar, party dessert, sweet treat

Base Cake Requirements

The base of any great cake starts with quality ingredients. For this Mounds-inspired cake, you’ll need a mix of dry and wet ingredients. This mix ensures a moist, decadent base.

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup dark cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Coconut Filling Components

The heart of our coconut lovers cake is its luxurious filling. These ingredients make a creamy, tropical layer. It captures the essence of the classic Mounds bar.

• 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Frosting Elements

No coconut chocolate cake is complete without a rich, velvety chocolate coating. This coating brings all the flavors together.

Pro tip: The quality of your ingredients greatly affects the taste of your baked treats. Always pick fresh, high-quality ingredients for a memorable coconut chocolate cake experience.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make an old fashioned mounds cake recipe, you need the right tools. I’ve picked out the best equipment for a great mounds cake recipe. This will help you get professional results.

• KitchenAid Stand Mixer: Crucial for creating smooth cake batter
• USA Pan Bakeware 9-inch Round Cake Pan: Guarantees even baking and perfect cake rise
• Ateco Offset Spatula: Perfect for spreading filling and frosting seamlessly
• OXO Digital Kitchen Scale: Ensures precise ingredient measurements
• Rubber Spatula: Essential for scraping mixing bowls clean
• Whisk: Ideal for blending dry ingredients
• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurate ingredient portioning

Choose quality tools for better baking. A stand mixer makes mixing easier. An accurate kitchen scale is key for right measurements. The right pan is crucial for a great cake.

If you’re new to baking, don’t stress about having all the tools. Many can be swapped or made do without. What’s most important is a reliable mixing method, accurate measuring tools, and a good baking pan for your old fashioned mounds cake recipe.

Step-by-Step Mounds Cake Recipe

Making the perfect mounds cake with sweetened condensed milk is a fun journey. I’ll show you how to make this amazing dessert step by step. You’ll get the best mounds cake recipe ever.

First, get all your ingredients ready and set up your kitchen. This recipe needs focus but it’s worth it.

Preparing the Cake Base

To start, you’ll need:

• 1 box chocolate fudge cake mix
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 3 large eggs

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix the cake ingredients well. Pour the batter into greased 9-inch pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick is clean. Let the cakes cool down completely.

Creating the Coconut Filling

The coconut layer is key in this recipe. You’ll mix:

• 1 1/2 cups sweetened condensed milk
• 4 cups sweetened coconut flakes
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix until it’s smooth and creamy. This filling is perfect for layering between the cakes.

Making the Chocolate Frosting

The last step is the chocolate frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups salted butter
• 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cream the butter, then add sugar and cocoa. Slowly add milk and vanilla until it’s smooth. Spread it over your cake layers.

Pro Tips for Baking Success

Turning a simple cake mix into a masterpiece takes some expert tricks. As a dedicated baker, I’ve found a few key methods to make your Mounds Cake stand out. The secret to a great cake often comes from small tweaks and exact techniques used while preparing it.

Here are some essential tips to boost your cake mix:

• Swap water for milk or strong coffee to deepen the chocolate taste
• Add a bit of sour cream for extra moisture and flavor
• Use an oven thermometer for the right baking temperature
• Make sure cake pans are well-greased and lined with parchment paper

When baking, precision is crucial. Get a digital kitchen scale for exact measurements. Ingredients at room temperature mix better, making the cake softer. Mix dry and wet ingredients separately to avoid a dense cake.

For the best Mounds Cake, focus on these important steps:

1. Sift dry ingredients to avoid lumps
2. Cream butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy
3. Check if the cake is done with a toothpick – it should have a few moist crumbs
4. Cool the cake on a wire rack to keep it at its best texture

By using these expert baking methods, you’ll make a Mounds Cake that’s as good as those from a bakery. Baking is both a science and an art. The right techniques and a bit of creativity lead to the tastiest results.

Secret Ingredients and Substitutions

Turning a classic mounds cake into something special needs creativity and smart swaps. I’ve found many ways to make your chocolate mounds cake even better. You can keep it flexible and still enjoy every bite.

Every great baker knows the secret is in the details. Here are some secret ingredients to make your cake truly amazing:

Enhancing Chocolate Flavor

• Add 1-2 tablespoons of 100% cocoa powder for intense chocolate depth
• Mix in hot coffee to boost moisture and chocolate richness
• Sprinkle instant espresso powder into the cake batter

Coconut Options

• Use freshly grated coconut for authentic texture
• Experiment with sweetened or unsweetened flaked coconut
• Try creamed coconut as a unique frosting base

Sweetener Alternatives

• Replace sugar with coconut sugar for deeper flavor
• Use stevia for a low-calorie option
• Try maple syrup as a natural sweetener

Baking is all about trying new things. These swaps let you make your mounds cake your own. You can keep its classic charm and delicious coconut-chocolate taste.

Storage and Serving Guidelines

Storing your Mounds Cake right is key to enjoying every bite. For up to 2 days, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, refrigeration is the way to go.

Does ding dong cake need to be refrigerated? For a Mounds Cake, yes, refrigeration is best to keep it fresh and prevent spoilage. Here are my top storage tips:

• Refrigerate the cake in a sealed container for up to 5 days
• Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months
• Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss
• Wrap cake tightly with plastic wrap before storing

Serving the cake needs some care. Let refrigerated slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This makes the cake soft again and brings out its flavor.

Serving suggestions include pairing your Mounds Cake with:

• Fresh coffee
• Cold milk
• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream

Pro tip: Use a sharp, serrated knife dipped in warm water to create clean, beautiful slices. This showcases the cake’s layers and texture.

Nutritional Information and Portion Size

I love baking and making coconut lovers cake. It’s important to know what’s in our treats. The mounds cake recipe with marshmallows is a tasty mix of indulgence and health.

Serving Considerations

The recipe makes 10 servings, each about 129 grams. Here are some important diet tips:

• Moderate in calories for an occasional treat
• Contains significant carbohydrate content
• Provides a balance of macronutrients

Dietary Modifications

For those watching their intake, consider these changes:

1. Reduce sugar by using alternative sweeteners
2. Substitute some ingredients with lower-fat alternatives
3. Use gluten-free flour for dietary restrictions

Enjoying this coconut lovers cake is about balance and moderation. Savor each bite while keeping an eye on your nutritional needs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Baking a perfect Mounds Cake can be tough, but I’ve got you covered. I’ll guide you through common problems and help your cake be moist and delicious every time. Knowing what to do with your cake after baking is key.

Dry cake is a common problem. Too much flour usually causes it, as it soaks up too much moisture. When you measure flour, use a separate spoon to avoid packed measurements. This helps prevent dense, dry cakes.

• If your cake is dry, try these rescue techniques:
  • Soak the cake in a sweet liquid like Tres Leches
  • Brush with simple syrup to add moisture
  • Use a moistening glaze

Learning to make cake layers level is crucial. Here are my best tips for even layers:

1. Let the cake cool completely before leveling
2. Use a long serrated knife for precise trimming
3. Rotate the cake slowly while cutting for an even surface
4. Chill the cake briefly to make cutting easier

When working with meringue or delicate cake parts, remember these tips:
– Keep mixing bowls clean and grease-free
– Add sugar slowly while beating egg whites
– Avoid overmixing or deflating the batter

By using these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be ready for any baking challenge. You’ll create a stunning Mounds Cake that will wow everyone!

Conclusion

Making the best mounds cake recipe is more than just following steps. It’s about creating a delightful experience that brings people together. This easy mounds cake recipe turns simple ingredients into a memorable dessert that sparks joy and creates lasting memories.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced pastry enthusiast, the mounds cake offers a delicious canvas for creativity. Its rich chocolate and coconut flavors create an indulgent treat perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or quiet moments of personal enjoyment.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Experiment with different variations, adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs, or add a personal twist. The most important ingredient is the love and passion you bring to baking. With practice, this easy mounds cake recipe will become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ultimately, baking is about more than just creating a dessert. It’s about sharing happiness, creating connections, and enjoying the sweet moments of life. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of the mounds cake begin!