There’s a certain excitement that fills the air when I decide to bake. The moment I crack open a box of Devil’s Food Cake Mix, I know I’m about to create something extraordinary. Today, I’m sharing my go-to Mounds Cake Recipe, an indulgent chocolate masterpiece that’s as effortless to make as it is delightful to savor. Picture this: a moist layer of rich chocolate cake, infused with a gooey coconut filling that brings a touch of tropical sweetness, all crowned with a silky, fudgy frosting.
This dessert has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for family gatherings or unexpected visits from friends. It combines the best elements of a classic poke cake – being simple yet satisfying – making it an irresistible treat that will elevate any occasion. If you’re tired of fast food desserts that lack heart and flavor, this Chocolate Mound Cake is sure to impress and bring warmth back into your home-baked delights. Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the magic within!
Why is this Mounds Cake Recipe a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: This Mounds Cake Recipe harmoniously blends rich chocolate and coconut for a delightful experience.
Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Impressive presentation: Serve it at gatherings, and watch your friends be amazed by the moist layers and glossy frosting.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize by swapping in your favorite fillings or toppings, ensuring your version is uniquely yours.
Time-saving treat: In less than an hour, you can whip up this decadent dessert, making it great for last-minute occasions.
Family favorite: Once you share this cake with your loved ones, they’ll keep asking for it again and again!
Mounds Cake Recipe Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- Devil’s Food Cake Mix – This is the foundation of your cake; for a twist, try using Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Whole Milk – Use this instead of water for a moist texture; feel free to substitute with 2% or a non-dairy milk if desired.
For the Coconut Filling
- Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Adds a tropical sweetness and texture; you can replace it with marshmallow fluff for a different spin or omit it for a non-coconut cake.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – This binds the coconut filling together, creating that irresistible gooeyness; no substitutions are recommended for the best result.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens both the coconut filling and the frosting; regular sugar is an option, but it may affect the texture.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to your frosting; margarine or a dairy-free alternative works in a pinch.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – For the chocolatey flavor in the frosting, ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the right balance.
- Whole Milk – Used for a creamy consistency; non-dairy milk or 2% can be swapped for a deliciously smooth texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of your frosting; while optional, it’s highly recommended for extra depth.
With these simple yet delightful ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a stunning Mounds Cake Recipe that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Mounds Cake
Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the Devil’s Food Cake Mix package. Grease a 9×13-inch pan, ensuring the cake will slide out easily after baking.
Bake the cake: Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, usually around 25-30 minutes. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Poke holes: While the cake is still warm, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. This allows the gooey coconut filling to seep deep into the cake, enhancing the flavor.
Mix coconut filling: In a medium bowl, combine sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar. Stir until well blended; this filling will be rich and sticky!
Pour coconut filling: Gently pour the coconut mixture over the warm cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that it seeps into the holes you’ve made.
Prepare frosting: In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in unsweetened cocoa powder and powdered sugar until smooth, then slowly add whole milk and stir until combined. Finally, mix in vanilla extract for that extra flavor.
Spread frosting: Once your frosting is smooth, spread it evenly over the cake. For a touch of extra sweetness, sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top if desired.
Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. For an even fudgier treat, refrigerate the cake overnight to let the flavors meld.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Mounds Cake Recipe?
Indulging in a slice of this heavenly cake is merely the beginning; let’s enhance your dessert experience with delightful pairings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture perfectly complements the rich chocolate and coconut flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the moist cake, making each bite even more delightful.
Fresh Berries: Pair your slice with tart raspberries or strawberries for a pop of freshness that cuts through the richness, invigorating your palate.
Coffee: A nice cup of coffee enhances the chocolate notes of the cake and warms your soul, creating a cozy dessert moment.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your slice with a warm drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
Coconut Macarons: These chewy, sweet treats echo the coconut filling while providing a delightful texture contrast that will please your guests.
Mint Tea: Refreshing and soothing, mint tea provides a lovely herbal note that balances the dessert’s sweetness, making it a sophisticated choice.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your slice adds a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the luscious layers of the cake and coconut filling.
Storage Tips for Mounds Cake Recipe
- Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its moist texture and flavor.
- Fridge: If you want to keep your Mounds Cake longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Chilling enhances the fudginess for a truly indulgent experience.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying to retain moisture.
- Reheating: If desired, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy it warm, enhancing that gooey coconut filling and frosting.
Mounds Cake Recipe Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful cake with these fun swaps and twists to make it uniquely yours!
Chocolate Ganache: Replace the coconut filling with a rich chocolate ganache for an all-out chocolate experience.
The combination of flavors creates a luxurious layer that melts in your mouth, making it even more indulgent.Layered Candy Bars: Mix in mini chocolate chips or crushed Mounds candy bars inside the coconut filling for added texture.
This brings delicious crunch and a surprise burst of flavor with every bite!Coconut-Free Version: Skip the shredded coconut entirely for a simpler chocolate dessert.
Don’t worry; you can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder for depth.Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute unsalted butter and whole milk with coconut oil and almond milk to create a dairy-free rendition.
The cake remains moist and delicious while catering to a dairy-free lifestyle!Sweetness Level: Decrease the amount of powdered sugar in both the filling and frosting for a less sweet cake that’s still rich.
This subtle adjustment allows the chocolate flavor to shine while keeping the texture delightful.Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts in the frosting or filling for an added crunch.
This delightful twist will surprise your guests and compliment the chocolate and coconut beautifully!Coffee Infusion: For an extra layer of flavor, add freshly brewed coffee to the cake mix and the frosting.
The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a deep and satisfying dessert!Fruit Addition: Toss in a layer of ripe bananas or strawberries between the cake and frosting for a freshness that complements the rich flavors.
This swap creates a lovely balance of sweetness and acidity, elevating the entire dessert experience!
Expert Tips for the Mounds Cake Recipe
- Rich Flavor Boost: Replace water in the cake mix with whole milk or brewed coffee for a more decadent chocolate flavor.
- Mixing Caution: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense final product.
- Timing Matters: When using a convection oven, reduce baking time by about 5 minutes to prevent overbaking. Always check for doneness early!
- Poke for Perfection: Poke more holes in the cake than you think necessary; this ensures maximum absorption of the coconut filling, enhancing the flavor.
- Cooling Time: Patience pays off! Allow the cake to cool fully; refrigerating overnight will give you an even fudgier texture to savor.
- Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add mini chocolate chips or swap the coconut filling for alternatives to make this Mounds Cake Recipe uniquely yours.
Make Ahead Options
This Mounds Cake Recipe is perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the entire cake (without the frosting) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cake, poke the holes, and pour the coconut filling over while it’s still warm. Allow it to cool, then cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, prepare the frosting by melting the butter, mixing in the cocoa powder and sugar, then spreading it over the chilled cake. Just like that, you’ll have a delicious dessert that tastes just as fresh as the day you made it!
Mounds Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cake mix is best for Mounds Cake?
I recommend using Devil’s Food Cake Mix as the base for this recipe, but you can also try Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix for even richer chocolate flavor. Both options provide a moist and delicious cake that pairs beautifully with the coconut filling.
How should I store leftover Mounds Cake?
Store your Mounds Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. This way, the moistness is preserved, and the flavors are enhanced.
Can I freeze Mounds Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual slices of the Mounds Cake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
What if my coconut filling turned out too runny?
If your coconut filling is too runny, it might be because too much sweetened condensed milk was added. Next time, start with half the amount and adjust to achieve your desired consistency. You can also add extra shredded coconut to thicken it up a bit.
Can I make Mounds Cake gluten-free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free Mounds Cake, use a gluten-free Devil’s Food Cake Mix. Additionally, double-check that the shredded coconut and powdered sugar are also gluten-free to ensure the entire cake meets your dietary needs.
Is Mounds Cake safe for kids and pets?
While Mounds Cake is safe for kids, be cautious if your pet is around. Ingredients like chocolate (found in the cake and frosting) can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. So, be sure to keep it out of their reach!
Moist Mounds Cake Recipe: Irresistibly Sweet Chocolate Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the Devil’s Food Cake Mix package. Grease a 9x13-inch pan.
- Bake the cake: Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, usually around 25-30 minutes. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Poke holes: While the cake is still warm, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface.
- Mix coconut filling: In a medium bowl, combine sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar. Stir until well blended.
- Pour coconut filling: Gently pour the coconut mixture over the warm cake and spread it evenly.
- Prepare frosting: In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder and powdered sugar until smooth, then slowly add whole milk and stir until combined. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Spread frosting: Once smooth, spread the frosting evenly over the cake. Optionally sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top.
- Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. For a fudgier treat, refrigerate the cake overnight.