Decadent Mounds-Inspired Layer Cake Recipe

Indulge in a slice of this luxurious Mounds-inspired layer cake, a dessert that masterfully combines the richness of chocolate with the tropical flavor of coconut. This cake is perfect for those who love the classic Mounds candy bar but want to enjoy it in a show-stopping, shareable form. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)

For the Coconut Topping:

• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup white sugar
• 12 oz (340g) bag flaked coconut
• 120 mini marshmallows (or 12 large marshmallows)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Fudge Topping:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) margarine
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Layer

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Mix and Bake: Prepare the chocolate cake batter following the box instructions or your homemade recipe. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
3. Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Make the Coconut Topping

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the milk and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
2. Add Coconut and Marshmallows: Once boiling, lower the heat and add the flaked coconut and marshmallows. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the marshmallows are fully melted.
3. Finish and Cool: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Let the topping cool slightly.

Prepare the Chocolate Fudge Topping

1. Melt the Margarine: In another saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
2. Combine and Cook: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cocoa powder, then add this mixture to the melted margarine. Pour in the evaporated milk and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
3. Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake

1. Poke Holes: Using a fork, poke holes all over the cooled cake layer.
2. Layer Toppings: Spoon and spread half of the coconut topping over the cake, letting some seep into the holes. Then, spread half of the chocolate fudge topping over the coconut layer.
3. Repeat: Repeat the layering with the remaining coconut and chocolate fudge toppings.

Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate: Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the layers set.
2. Serve: Once chilled, slice and serve. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
• Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 12-16 slices

This Mounds-inspired layer cake is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of chocolate and coconut in each luscious bite. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something extraordinary!