The Mounds cake is a dessert inspired by the beloved Mounds candy bar, a sweet treat that has been enjoyed for generations. The Mounds bar, known for its rich dark chocolate coating and sweet coconut filling, has long been a favorite for chocolate and coconut lovers alike. The Mounds cake brings these flavors to life in a more indulgent, cake-like form, making it a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Mounds cake is a fan-favorite due to its moist, rich texture and the harmonious combination of chocolate and coconut. It captures the essence of the candy bar by incorporating shredded coconut and layers of chocolate, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. What makes it stand out is its simplicity—starting with a basic cake mix, you can quickly transform everyday ingredients into an extraordinary dessert.

The cake itself offers layers of flavor and texture: a rich chocolate base enhanced by a layer of chocolate syrup and a creamy coconut topping. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for busy bakers, while its indulgent taste ensures that it’s always a hit at parties, family gatherings, or just a simple weeknight treat.

History and Popularity of Mounds Cake

The Mounds candy bar, created by the Peter Paul Candy Manufacturing Company in 1920, became an instant success due to its distinctive combination of sweet coconut and dark chocolate. Over the years, Mounds became one of the most popular coconut-filled chocolate bars in the U.S. Its success paved the way for various recipe adaptations, with home bakers creating dessert versions of their favorite candy bar, including the Mounds cake.

The idea of turning a candy bar into a cake isn’t new, but the Mounds cake has a special place in dessert history due to its unique blend of textures and flavors. Mounds cake became particularly popular in the 1970s and 1980s when convenience baking using boxed cake mixes and pre-made toppings was on the rise. The dessert’s simplicity, combined with its familiar, nostalgic flavors, quickly made it a favorite at potlucks and family gatherings.

Today, Mounds cake remains a popular choice for those who enjoy the blend of chocolate and coconut in a more substantial, cake-like form. Its popularity continues to thrive because it offers a balance of homemade charm with a hint of store-bought ease, making it a perfect dessert for a wide range of events, from holiday gatherings to casual weekend baking.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

White or Yellow Cake Mix: The base of the Mounds cake starts with a simple white or yellow cake mix. Both varieties work well, but they offer slightly different results. White cake mix produces a lighter, more neutral flavor, allowing the chocolate and coconut elements to take center stage. Yellow cake mix, on the other hand, adds a richer, buttery flavor, complementing the chocolate and coconut with a deeper sweetness. Either option will yield a moist and delicious cake, making this a flexible recipe based on your taste preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

Cocoa Powder & Sugar: To transform the cake mix into a chocolate base, cocoa powder and sugar are added. The cocoa powder infuses the batter with a rich, deep chocolate flavor, while the sugar ensures that the bitterness of the cocoa is balanced, keeping the cake sweet but not overwhelming. These two ingredients work together to create a homemade chocolate cake flavor without the need for starting completely from scratch.

Chocolate Chips: Sprinkling chocolate chips on top of the batter before baking adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness. As the cake bakes, the chips melt slightly, creating pockets of rich, gooey chocolate within the cake. This gives the Mounds cake an indulgent texture that mirrors the chocolate coating of the original candy bar.

Chocolate Syrup: Once the cake comes out of the oven, warm chocolate syrup is poured over the top. This not only intensifies the chocolate flavor but also helps to keep the cake moist. The syrup seeps into the poked holes in the cake, infusing it with a luscious, fudgy consistency and ensuring that every bite is rich and flavorful.

Cool Whip & Coconut: For the finishing touch, a mixture of Cool Whip and shredded coconut is spread over the cooled cake, mimicking the creamy coconut filling of the Mounds bar. Cool Whip provides a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense cake, while the coconut adds a slightly chewy, sweet bite that ties the entire dessert together. This combination is essential for capturing the true essence of the Mounds candy bar in cake form.

Step-by-Step Process for Making Mounds Cake

Preparing the Cake Mix: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. Prepare the boxed cake mix according to the package instructions, but with one twist: to elevate the flavor, consider substituting water with milk or adding an extra egg for a richer texture. This will create a denser, more flavorful cake that pairs well with the chocolate and coconut toppings.

Adding Cocoa and Sugar: To transform the plain cake mix into a chocolate base, add ½ cup of cocoa powder and ½ cup of sugar to the prepared batter. Be sure to blend these ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the chocolate flavor is evenly distributed throughout the cake. Proper mixing will also prevent any clumps of cocoa from forming, which could create bitter pockets in the cake.

Baking the Cake: Pour the batter into your greased baking dish and sprinkle 2 cups of chocolate chips evenly over the top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s important not to over-bake the cake, as doing so could make it dry. To avoid this, start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark.

Poking Holes in the Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the surface. This step is crucial, as it allows the chocolate syrup to seep into the cake, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Pouring Chocolate Syrup: Warm 1 cup of chocolate syrup and pour it evenly over the hot cake. The syrup will soak into the holes, adding a layer of fudgy richness. Let the cake cool completely, then cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Topping: Mix 8 oz of Cool Whip with 2 cups of shredded coconut. Once the cake has chilled, spread this mixture evenly over the top. The Cool Whip adds a light, creamy texture that perfectly complements the dense, chocolatey cake.

Final Chill: Chill the cake for at least an hour before serving. This final step allows the topping to set and ensures that the flavors fully meld together, resulting in a cake that’s moist, rich, and bursting with flavor.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Mounds Cake

Achieving an Even Batter: When preparing the cake batter, make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to ensure that the cocoa powder, sugar, and cake mix are evenly incorporated. This prevents any dry spots or clumps from forming in the cake and ensures a uniform texture.

Importance of Cooling Overnight: Cooling the cake overnight is crucial to achieving the best flavor and texture. The chocolate syrup needs time to soak into the cake, and the Cool Whip topping sets better when the cake is thoroughly chilled. Skipping this step may result in a cake that’s less moist and less flavorful.

Cutting Neat Squares: For clean, neat squares, use a sharp knife and wipe it off between cuts. You can also dip the knife in hot water before cutting, which helps it glide smoothly through the cake without sticking to the topping.

Storing Leftovers: Mounds cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you have leftovers, the cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for easy storage.

Variations and Customizations

Substituting Cake Mix Flavors: If you want to intensify the chocolate flavor, consider using a chocolate cake mix instead of white or yellow. This will create a double-chocolate version of the Mounds cake that is even richer and more decadent. You can also experiment with other flavors, like vanilla or almond, to add a different twist.

Adding Nuts: For added texture and flavor, consider adding nuts to the cake. Chopped almonds or pecans are excellent choices, as they pair well with both chocolate and coconut. You can fold the nuts into the cake batter or sprinkle them on top with the chocolate chips for an extra crunch.

Different Toppings: While the traditional topping for Mounds cake is a combination of Cool Whip and coconut, you can easily customize it. Whipped cream can be used in place of Cool Whip for a more homemade feel. Additionally, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the coconut topping to add a decorative and flavorful touch.

Making It Vegan: To make this cake vegan-friendly, use a dairy-free cake mix, plant-based milk, and vegan chocolate chips. For the topping, substitute the Cool Whip with a dairy-free whipped topping or whipped coconut cream. The shredded coconut is naturally vegan, making it an easy swap without sacrificing the signature flavor of the dessert.

Best Occasions for Serving Mounds Cake 

Mounds cake is a versatile dessert that shines at a variety of events, making it a popular choice for gatherings year-round. Its rich chocolate and coconut flavors make it especially ideal for holiday parties, particularly in the winter months when decadent desserts are most appreciated. The cake’s moist texture and indulgent topping fit perfectly with festive occasions like Christmas, New Year’s celebrations, or winter family dinners.

Aside from winter holidays, Mounds cake is a fantastic option for potlucks and family reunions, where easy-to-serve and crowd-pleasing desserts are key. Its ability to be made ahead of time ensures that you can focus on other preparations for large gatherings while still impressing guests with a delicious homemade treat. Because the cake needs to chill overnight, it’s a convenient dessert for hosts looking to minimize day-of stress.

Surprisingly, Mounds cake also makes a great dessert for summer barbecues or outdoor gatherings. The cool, creamy coconut topping offers a refreshing contrast to grilled foods, making it a hit at warm-weather events. Whether served at a casual picnic or a more formal celebration, this make-ahead dessert is sure to be a favorite among guests.

Recommended Pairings for Mounds Cake

Mounds cake’s rich flavors of chocolate and coconut pair beautifully with a variety of drinks and side desserts, enhancing the overall dessert experience. One of the best beverage pairings for this cake is a cup of strong, freshly brewed coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the cake’s sweetness, while the warmth complements the cool coconut topping. For a more indulgent pairing, a glass of cold milk offers a classic and comforting combination. If you prefer something a bit more festive, a sweet dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a port, pairs wonderfully with the chocolatey richness.

When it comes to side desserts, serving Mounds cake alongside a light fruit salad or a citrus sorbet can provide a refreshing contrast to its dense and rich texture. The brightness of fresh fruits or the tanginess of sorbet helps cleanse the palate, making each bite of the cake feel even more indulgent.

For an extra-special treat, serve Mounds cake with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream enhances the cake’s flavors, creating a luxurious dessert experience that’s perfect for those who want to take their serving to the next level.

FAQs about Mounds Cake 

Q1: Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of a boxed one?
Yes, you can easily substitute a homemade cake mix for the boxed version in this recipe. To do so, prepare your homemade vanilla or yellow cake batter as usual. Use a recipe that yields enough batter for a 9×13-inch pan, and be sure to incorporate the added cocoa powder and sugar as directed in the recipe to achieve the rich chocolate base. A homemade cake mix typically includes flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, butter, and milk. The substitution will result in a slightly more personalized flavor, though the ease of preparation remains the same.

Q2: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, Mounds cake can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that the rest of the ingredients, such as the cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and chocolate syrup, are also gluten-free. Most major brands offer gluten-free versions of these ingredients, so it’s relatively easy to adapt the recipe. Be mindful to check labels for cross-contamination if gluten sensitivity is a concern.

Q3: How long does Mounds Cake last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, Mounds cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. The cake will retain its moist texture, and the flavors will continue to deepen over time, making it even more delicious as it sits.

Q4: Can I freeze Mounds Cake?
Yes, Mounds cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled cake (without the topping) tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and add the Cool Whip and coconut topping just before serving.

Q5: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, Mounds cake is a great make-ahead dessert because the flavors improve with time. Preparing the cake a day in advance allows the chocolate syrup to fully soak into the cake, making it more flavorful and moist.

Q6: What can I substitute for Cool Whip if I can’t find it?
If you don’t have Cool Whip available, you can use whipped cream or make a stabilized whipped topping at home. To stabilize homemade whipped cream, add a bit of gelatin or cornstarch to ensure it holds its shape over time.

Why You Should Try Mounds Cake Today

Mounds cake is the perfect dessert for those who love the combination of rich chocolate and sweet coconut. Its simplicity makes it an ideal recipe for bakers of all skill levels, as it starts with a boxed cake mix and only requires a few additional ingredients to create a show-stopping treat. The indulgent layers of chocolate chips, syrup, and a creamy coconut topping offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures, making it a hit with both chocolate and coconut lovers alike.

What makes Mounds cake even more special is its flexibility. Whether you’re following the original recipe or adding your own customizations—like nuts, different cake mix flavors, or alternative toppings—this dessert is easy to make your own. Vegan or gluten-free variations are simple to achieve without sacrificing taste or quality, so everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.

Perfect for gatherings of all kinds, from holiday parties to summer barbecues, Mounds cake is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Its make-ahead convenience ensures that you can serve a delicious dessert without last-minute stress. So, why wait? Try Mounds cake today and enjoy the blend of classic flavors in a dessert that’s sure to be a favorite in any setting!

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