What makes a classic Mounds bar so irresistible in cake form? This easy homemade recipe combines rich chocolate and sweet coconut for a decadent treat, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner dessert or family favorite gathering. Save this idea for your next special occasion bake.

Mounds Cake Recipe

Introduction

Imagine a moist, decadent cake that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of coconut, all inspired by the classic Mounds bar. This Mounds Cake Recipe is a creative twist on traditional desserts, using everyday ingredients to craft a truly impressive treat. With its ease of preparation, perfect balance of flavors, and the flexibility to get creative with toppings and decorations, this cake is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers looking to impress their family and friends. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor and visual appeal.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of dark chocolate and sweet coconut flakes creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth, and the ingredients are readily available in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: The cake mixture comes together quickly, and the coconut topping is simple to prepare, making this a great option for last-minute gatherings or special occasions.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the Mounds Cake presents beautifully, especially when topped with additional coconut flakes or chocolate shavings, making it a showstopper at any dinner party or celebration.

Key Ingredients

The Mounds Cake Recipe relies on a few key ingredients to achieve its signature flavor and texture. These include dark chocolate for the cake and chocolate ganache, sweetened coconut flakes for the topping, and heavy cream to add moisture and richness. For the cake, you’ll also need basic baking ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate or unsweetened coconut flakes for a less sweet topping. However, keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor profile of the cake.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together eggs, butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Melt the dark chocolate and allow it to cool slightly, then fold it into the cake mixture until well incorporated.
2. Step 2: Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Step 3: To make the coconut topping, toast the coconut flakes in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning. For the chocolate ganache, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
4. Step 4: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of chocolate ganache on top. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the ganache. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining ganache. Finish by sprinkling additional toasted coconut flakes over the top of the cake.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the cake layers are even, make sure to level them after they have cooled. This can be done using a cake leveler or a serrated knife.
• For an extra moist cake, brush the cake layers with a simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved) after they have cooled.
• When toasting coconut flakes, keep a close eye on them as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when baking the cakes and toasting the coconut flakes. The ideal temperature for baking the cakes is 350°F (175°C), and they should be baked for 25-30 minutes. The coconut flakes should be toasted in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. It’s also important to not overheat the heavy cream when making the chocolate ganache, as it should just start to simmer before being removed from the heat.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this cake comes from the toasted coconut flakes. To achieve the perfect crunch, it’s essential to not overtoast the coconut. A light golden color is ideal, as it adds texture and flavor without becoming too dark or bitter. Additionally, the dark chocolate ganache provides a smooth contrast to the crunchy coconut, making each bite interesting and engaging.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a smoother ganache, make sure the chocolate is at room temperature before pouring in the hot cream. This helps the chocolate melt evenly and prevents lumps from forming.
• To prevent the cake from becoming too dense, don’t overmix the batter. Stop mixing once the ingredients are just combined.
• Using high-quality chocolate will significantly enhance the flavor of your cake. Look for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content for the best results.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• For longer storage, the cake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing is also an option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cake can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or refrigerate overnight before serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This Mounds Cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for chocolate and coconut lovers. Consider packaging it in a decorative cake box or a large tin. You can also wrap the cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then in a colorful towel or cloth, tying it with a ribbon for a more rustic look. Adding a few extra touches like a bag of gourmet coffee or a box of chocolates can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter can enhance the chocolate flavor. For a unique twist, try adding a hint of orange or mint extract to the ganache.
• Creative toppings: Besides toasted coconut flakes, consider topping your cake with chopped nuts, caramel sauce, or even candy pieces for a fun and playful look.
• Ingredient swaps: For a lighter version, you could substitute some of the butter with applesauce or use coconut oil instead. Keep in mind that these swaps may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. If it’s too dry, it could be overbaked. Adjust your mixing and baking times accordingly for better results.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of an ingredient, consider what can be substituted without altering the flavor profile too much. For example, milk can be used instead of heavy cream in the ganache, though it won’t be as rich.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cakes while they’re baking. They should be lightly golden on the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. For the coconut, a light golden color is perfect; any darker and it may taste bitter.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw at room temperature or refrigerate overnight before serving.
• Is it gluten-free? The current recipe includes wheat flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours as a substitute, though this may affect the texture and flavor slightly.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly. A good rule of thumb is to increase the baking time by 50% for double the recipe, but keep an eye on the cakes as oven temperatures can vary.

Conclusion

This Mounds Cake Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to impress with a rich, decadent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its perfect balance of chocolate and coconut, it’s sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings and substitutions to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is a great project to undertake, promising delicious results with minimal fuss. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooos and aahs as you present your masterpiece to family and friends.