Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist chocolate cake, layered with a sweet, creamy coconut filling, and topped with a rich chocolate ganache. This Mounds bar cake recipe brings that dream to life. It’s surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight treat. Want to know how to make a cake mix taste like it’s from a bakery? This recipe has you covered. You’ll find helpful tips and variations to customize your cake and impress your friends and family.
If you enjoy simple, flavorful desserts, you might also love this pineapple cloud cake or a classic cloud cake. This Mounds bar cake recipe takes inspiration from the classic candy bar, capturing the perfect balance of chocolate and coconut. But what exactly is a Mounds bar? Let’s dive into the details.
What is a Mounds Bar, Anyway?
A Mounds bar is a popular candy bar consisting of a sweetened shredded coconut filling encased in rich dark chocolate. Its simple yet satisfying combination of flavors has made it a beloved treat for generations. This Mounds bar cake recipe elevates those classic flavors into a delightful dessert experience. This cake is perfect for coconut lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.
Gathering Your Ingredients for a Mounds Bar Cake Recipe
Before you start baking, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Using high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your Mounds bar cake. Remember accuracy is key to baking success, so measure carefully.
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Mounds Bar Cake
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 2-layer, 9-inch cake 1x
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Coconut Filling Ingredients:
- 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache Frosting Ingredients:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Secret Ingredients (add to your preference and needs):
- Pinch of espresso powder (for the cake batter)
- Dash of coconut extract (for the coconut filling)
Instructions
Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch pans.
- Whisk dry ingredients.
- Combine wet ingredients separately.
- Add wet to dry, mix on low.
- Slowly add boiling water, mix on low.
- Pour batter into pans.
- Bake 25 mins, until skewer is clean.
- Cool in pans 10 mins, then invert to cool completely.
Making the Coconut Filling:
- Combine coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla.
- Mix well.
- Refrigerate at least 30 mins.
Preparing the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- Combine chocolate chips and cream in a heatproof bowl.
- Melt over simmering water, stirring.
- Remove from heat, stir in butter until smooth.
- Let cool to spreadable consistency.
Assembling the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on plate.
- Spread half of filling.
- Top with second cake layer.
- Frost entire cake with ganache.
- Decorate as desired.
Notes
- Do not overbake the cake.
- For a runnier ganache, add more heavy cream.
- For a thicker ganache, use less cream or chill it longer.
- The cake is best served chilled.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Breakfast
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 750
- Fat: 44
- Carbohydrates: 89
- Protein: 9
Baking the Perfect Mounds Bar Cake: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, let’s begin the baking process. Follow these detailed instructions carefully to achieve a perfect Mounds bar cake.
Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Slowly pour in the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin. This is normal. This Mounds bar cake recipe might seem complex, but the steps are straightforward.
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure the cakes have completely cooled before assembling. Try other variations of this Mounds bar cake recipe by making cupcakes or a sheet cake. This allows for different serving sizes and presentations.
Making the Coconut Filling
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the coconut filling. In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the coconut is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up, making it easier to spread. Making the coconut filling for this Mounds bar cake recipe is quick and easy.
Preparing the Chocolate Ganache Frosting
In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter until fully incorporated. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency. Check out our fudge recipe using sweetened condensed milk for another delicious treat. This will help you gain experience working with similar ingredients.
Assembling the Mounds Bar Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the coconut filling evenly over the cake layer. Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the chocolate ganache. You can leave the sides unfrosted for a rustic look or frost them completely for a more polished finish. Decorate with toasted coconut flakes, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries, if desired. Preparing this Mounds bar cake recipe is quite rewarding.
Looking for a refreshing dessert? This lemon meringue tart offers a tangy and sweet contrast to the rich Mounds bar cake.
Tips and Tricks for Mounds Bar Cake Recipe Success
To avoid a dry cake, don’t overbake. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. For a runnier ganache, add more heavy cream. For a thicker ganache, use less cream or chill it longer. Try using different types of chocolate in your ganache, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate. This can dramatically change the flavor profile of your Mounds bar cake recipe.
Mounds Bar Cake Recipe Variations
This Mounds bar cake recipe is versatile and can be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
Gluten-Free Mounds Bar Cake
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Be sure to choose a blend specifically designed for cakes to ensure the best texture. Adjust the baking time as needed, as gluten-free cakes sometimes bake differently than traditional cakes.
Dairy-Free Mounds Bar Cake
Use dairy-free buttermilk, vegan butter, and dairy-free chocolate chips to create a dairy-free version. The coconut filling is naturally dairy-free. You can also use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the ganache. Experimenting with this Mounds bar cake recipe can be fun and delicious.
Mini Mounds Bar Cupcakes
Bake the cake batter in cupcake liners for individual servings. Adjust the baking time to about 18-20 minutes. Fill the cooled cupcakes with the coconut filling and top with the chocolate ganache. These mini treats are perfect for parties and gatherings. Adjusting this Mounds Bar cake recipe for cupcakes is a great way to personalize your baking experience.
Serving Your Mounds Bar Cake in Style
This Mounds bar cake is best served chilled. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for an elegant touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a perfect beverage pairing, serve with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
Storing Your Mounds Bar Cake to Maintain Freshness
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Proper storage will ensure your Mounds bar cake recipe remains delicious for days to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mounds Bar Cake Recipes
Here are some commonly asked questions about Mounds bars and this cake recipe:
What is Mounds Bar?
A Mounds bar is a candy bar made by Hershey’s consisting of a shredded coconut center coated in dark chocolate. It’s known for its simple yet satisfying combination of flavors. Learn more about Mounds bars here.
What is a secret ingredient for cake?
A secret ingredient for cake can be buttermilk, which adds moisture and a tangy flavor. Another secret ingredient is a pinch of salt, which enhances the sweetness of the cake. These additions can elevate your Mounds bar cake recipe and enhance its overall flavor profile. Simple additions can transform your Mounds bar cake recipe from good to exceptional.
What is in the middle of Black Forest cake?
A Black Forest cake typically has layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries in the center. It’s a different flavor profile compared to the coconut filling of a Mounds bar cake.
How do you make a cake mix taste like a cake from the bakery?
Elevate a cake mix by adding an extra egg, substituting water with milk or buttermilk, and adding a box of instant pudding mix that complements the cake flavor. These simple additions can significantly improve the texture and taste of your cake, making it taste closer to a bakery-style cake.
Indulge in Your Homemade Mounds Bar Cake Creation
This Mounds bar cake recipe is a true delight for chocolate and coconut lovers. It’s easy to follow, adaptable to different dietary needs, and the end result is a showstopper dessert that will impress everyone. So go ahead, bake this cake, and enjoy a slice of paradise! Now that you have the perfect Mounds bar cake recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking!