Mounds Cake

Introduction

When I first baked the Mounds Cake, I knew it was going to be something special, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much of a hit it would be! The combination of a rich, moist chocolate cake with the creamy coconut topping and gooey marshmallows made for a dessert that disappeared faster than I could have imagined. It’s one of those cakes that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and comforting. My family couldn’t stop raving about it, and I ended up baking a second one the very next day to share with friends. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion, having a cozy night in, or need a cake that’s sure to please a crowd, Mounds Cake is a guaranteed winner.

Why You’ll Love Mounds Cake

Mounds Cake is the perfect indulgence for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and coconut. Inspired by the Mounds candy bar, this cake features a rich, fudgy chocolate base topped with a decadent layer of coconut, marshmallows, and a gooey chocolate fudge sauce. Every bite is a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy coconut, warm chocolate, and soft marshmallows. The addition of pecans adds a subtle crunch, taking the texture to a whole new level of satisfaction. The cake is incredibly easy to make, yet it looks and tastes as though it belongs at a bakery. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress guests and satisfy every sweet tooth in the room.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 12 oz flaked coconut
• 120 mini marshmallows
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Fudge Topping:

• 1/2 cup margarine
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 12 oz evaporated milk

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the box of chocolate cake mix (usually 350°F/175°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them or lining them with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Mix the cake batter according to the instructions on the package, substituting 1 cup of milk for the recommended water. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake as directed, typically 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once the cake is done, let it cool completely before proceeding.
2. Prepare the Coconut Layer: While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the coconut topping. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked coconut, sugar, vanilla extract, and mini marshmallows. Mix everything together well, ensuring that the marshmallows are evenly distributed throughout the coconut mixture. If you like a bit of crunch in your topping, you can also add the chopped pecans at this stage, mixing them into the coconut mixture.
3. Prepare the Fudge Topping: To make the chocolate fudge topping, melt the margarine in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, and evaporated milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, and allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens into a smooth, glossy fudge sauce. Once the fudge sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
4. Layer the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the coconut mixture evenly over the top of the cake, pressing it down gently so it sticks. The marshmallows should be partially embedded in the coconut mixture. After that, pour the prepared fudge topping over the coconut layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill Before Serving: Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the toppings to set. This will also make it easier to cut the cake into neat slices. Once chilled, slice and serve the cake. The layers will hold their shape, and the cake will be perfectly set with a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12-16 slices (depending on how large you cut the pieces)
• Calories per serving: 360
  • Calories from fat: 160
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 39g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated fat: 9g

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 25-30 minutes
• Chilling time: 1 hour
• Total time: 2 hours (including chilling)

How to Serve

Mounds Cake is an incredibly versatile dessert that can be served in several ways, depending on the occasion:

• As a Dessert for Special Occasions: Mounds Cake makes an excellent choice for birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings. Its rich layers and indulgent flavor will impress your guests every time.
• With a Scoop of Ice Cream: If you want to elevate your dessert experience, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or coconut ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the warm, fudgy topping perfectly.
• For a Party or Potluck: This cake is easy to make in advance and can feed a crowd. It’s a great addition to any party, potluck, or picnic where you want to serve something rich and satisfying.
• With a Hot Drink: Pair Mounds Cake with a hot beverage like coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. The rich chocolate and coconut flavors are perfect for dipping and pairing with your favorite hot drink.

Additional Tips

1. Use Full-Fat Evaporated Milk: For the creamiest, richest fudge topping, make sure to use full-fat evaporated milk. This adds to the creamy texture and ensures the fudge sets up perfectly.
2. Chill the Cake Before Cutting: Allowing the cake to chill before cutting helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without the toppings sliding off.
3. Add More Coconut: If you’re a coconut lover, feel free to increase the amount of flaked coconut. You can also try using unsweetened coconut for a more balanced sweetness.
4. Use Pecans or Walnuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even a nut-free option like sunflower seeds.
5. Double the Recipe for Larger Parties: If you need a larger cake, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan. The layers will still work beautifully in a bigger cake.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes, you can use a vanilla, yellow, or even a spice cake mix as a substitute for chocolate cake mix, depending on your flavor preferences.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this cake gluten-free. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the box for the best results.
3. Can I freeze Mounds Cake? While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cake after it has chilled and set. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator.
4. Can I make this cake without the marshmallows? Yes, you can skip the marshmallows if you prefer a different texture or want to make it dairy-free.
5. What can I use instead of margarine? You can use unsalted butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.
6. Can I make the fudge topping in advance? Yes, the fudge topping can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before pouring it over the cake.
7. How can I make the cake more chocolatey? If you love chocolate, consider adding mini chocolate chips to the cake mix or sprinkling them over the coconut layer before adding the fudge topping.
8. Can I use sweetened coconut flakes? Yes, sweetened coconut flakes work well, but be mindful of the added sugar when preparing the rest of the cake.
9. Can I use different nuts for the topping? Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios for a unique twist.
10. How long can I store Mounds Cake? Store leftover Mounds Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Conclusion

Mounds Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate and coconut lovers alike. With its rich chocolate base, gooey marshmallow-coconut topping, and fudgy chocolate glaze, this cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and always gets rave reviews. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, a family gathering, or just as a sweet treat, Mounds Cake will satisfy every sweet tooth. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for? This cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!

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