If you’re a fan of that iconic candy bar packed with rich chocolate and luscious coconut, then this Mounds Cake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine sinking your fork into a moist chocolate cake layered with gooey marshmallow-coconut topping and finished with a silky chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. This dessert perfectly captures the essence of its namesake candy but turns it into a glorious homemade treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet indulgence, this Mounds Cake Recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s nothing short of magical.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in creating the luscious textures and bold flavors of this cake. From the rich chocolate base to the fluffy coconut topping and the smooth ganache, every element works in harmony to deliver a truly irresistible dessert experience.
- Chocolate cake mix: The foundation for a moist and tender cake, perfect for holding up the toppings.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that soft marshmallow glaze.
- Milk: Provides moisture and richness, blending everything smoothly.
- Large marshmallows: When melted, they create the signature gooey layer that makes the cake stand out.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Delivers that classic coconut flavor and delightful texture throughout.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melting into a silky layer, they introduce a luscious, slightly bittersweet contrast.
- Heavy cream: Makes the chocolate ganache luxuriously smooth and creamy.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that glossy finish on the chocolate layer.
How to Make Mounds Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly—it’s important not to add the topping while the cake is too hot, or it won’t absorb properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Marshmallow Coconut Topping
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, milk, and marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows have melted completely and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once melted, stir in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed. Immediately pour this mixture over the warm cake and spread it carefully to cover the entire surface.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a separate saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter until it just begins to simmer. Remove from the heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring continuously until you have a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache. Pour this over the coconut layer, spreading it evenly to seal in all that gooey goodness.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Let the cake cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set beautifully. When you slice into this Mounds Cake Recipe, every bite will reveal a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
How to Serve Mounds Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this cake even further, sprinkle a few extra toasted coconut flakes on top right before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can add a pretty finishing touch. Fresh mint leaves also provide a lovely contrast in flavor and color.
Side Dishes
This decadent Mounds Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance its richness. For coffee lovers, a well-brewed espresso or rich black coffee complements the chocolate and coconut flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fancy, try serving individual slices with a small scoop of coconut sorbet, topped with toasted coconut shavings and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For parties, consider cutting the cake into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a decorative platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. This makes sharing your passion for this dessert extra fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mounds Cake Recipe keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain the moistness of the cake and prevent the coconut topping from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this cake features marshmallow and coconut layers, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warm, you can microwave individual slices for about 10 seconds, but avoid overheating to keep the marshmallow layer intact.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix for the Mounds Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade chocolate cake works wonderfully here and lets you tailor flavors and textures even more to your liking. Just make sure the cake layer is sturdy enough to support the marshmallow-coconut topping.
Is there a way to make this cake vegan?
While the classic version includes dairy and marshmallows, you could experiment with vegan cake mix, plant-based milk, coconut cream, and vegan marshmallows. Keep in mind the texture and consistency might differ slightly, but the tropical flavors will still shine.
Can I substitute dark chocolate in this Mounds Cake Recipe?
Yes! Dark chocolate chips can add a deeper, richer flavor to the ganache, balancing the sweetness of the marshmallow and coconut layers beautifully. Feel free to adjust based on how intense you want the chocolate to be.
Why do you recommend chilling the cake before serving?
Chilling allows the marshmallow-coconut topping and the ganache to set firmly, making slicing easier and keeping your layers intact. It also helps the flavors meld together into a more harmonious bite.
Can I make this as a layer cake instead of a sheet cake?
Definitely! You can bake the chocolate cake in two round pans and layer the marshmallow coconut mixture and ganache between the layers for a stunning presentation. Just be sure to adjust baking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making a scratch Mounds Cake Recipe at home—it’s like bringing the joy of a beloved candy bar into an indulgent, shareable dessert. Whether you bake it for a celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake never fails to deliver on taste and texture. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite dessert that everyone will ask for again and again.
Print
Mounds Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mounds Cake is a decadent layered dessert combining rich chocolate cake with a gooey marshmallow coconut topping, finished with a smooth chocolate ganache. This American classic is inspired by the Mounds candy bar, delivering a delightful blend of flavors and textures perfect for any chocolate lover’s gathering.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
Topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 24 large marshmallows
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Chocolate Ganache
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake Cake: Preheat the oven according to the chocolate cake mix package instructions. Prepare the cake mix as directed and pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool slightly.
- Make Marshmallow Coconut Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, milk, and marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut until evenly mixed.
- Top Cake with Coconut Mixture: Pour the warm marshmallow coconut mixture evenly over the warm cake, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir gently until all the chocolate is melted and the ganache is smooth.
- Pour Ganache Over Coconut Layer: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the coconut topping and spread it smoothly with a spatula.
- Chill and Serve: Let the cake cool down to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set. Slice into 12 servings and serve chilled for best results.
Notes
- For a richer flavor profile, substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
- You can transform this into a layer cake by baking the batter in two round pans and layering the coconut and chocolate mixtures between the layers.
