If you love the classic combination of rich chocolate and sweet coconut, this mounds cake with coconut filling is about to become your new favorite dessert. Inspired by the iconic Mounds candy bar, this homemade cake brings together moist chocolate cake layers and a creamy coconut center that tastes indulgent, nostalgic, and surprisingly easy to make. From holidays and birthdays to casual family gatherings, this chocolate coconut cake fits every occasion without feeling complicated.
If you enjoy candy-bar inspired desserts, you’ll also love our
classic Mounds cake recipe, which highlights the same irresistible chocolate-and-coconut flavor combination in a slightly different style.
Unlike store-bought desserts, a homemade Mounds cake lets you control the texture, sweetness, and flavor balance. The result is a cake that’s deeply chocolatey, perfectly moist, and filled with a luscious coconut layer that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re searching for a trusted mounds cake recipe, an easy chocolate coconut cake, or a dessert that feels both classic and impressive, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
What Is Mounds Cake With Coconut Filling?
The Inspiration Behind the Mounds Candy Bar Cake
At its core, mounds cake with coconut filling is a dessert inspired by the famous Mounds candy bar, which is known for its rich dark chocolate coating and soft, sweet coconut center. This cake version takes that same flavor profile and transforms it into a layered, bakery-style dessert that feels both nostalgic and homemade.
Instead of a candy shell, this recipe uses moist chocolate cake layers to recreate the deep cocoa flavor. Then, just like the candy bar, a creamy coconut filling is added right in the center. As a result, every slice delivers the same chocolate-and-coconut balance people love, but in a more indulgent, shareable form. That’s exactly why the mounds bar cake concept has become so popular in home kitchens.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a chocolate cake with a surprise filling, this recipe takes that idea further. The coconut layer isn’t just a hint of flavor — it’s thick, rich, and unmistakably inspired by the original candy bar.
Why Chocolate and Coconut Are a Timeless Pairing
Chocolate and coconut have been paired together for generations, and for good reason. The slight bitterness of chocolate balances the natural sweetness of coconut, creating a flavor combination that never feels overwhelming. In a chocolate coconut cake, this contrast becomes even more satisfying because the textures work together as well.
The moist crumb of the chocolate cake soaks up just enough sweetness from the coconut filling, while the filling itself stays soft and creamy. That’s why desserts like homemade Mounds cake or coconut layer cake recipes continue to trend year after year. They’re comforting, familiar, and still feel special enough for celebrations.
Compared to other chocolate desserts, a cake with coconut filling stands out because it offers more depth. You don’t just taste chocolate — you experience layers of flavor and texture in every bite. That’s what makes this moist chocolate cake with coconut such a reliable crowd-pleaser, whether you’re baking for family or bringing dessert to a gathering.
Why This Mounds Cake Recipe Is So Popular
Candy-Bar–Inspired Desserts and Their Appeal
Candy-bar–inspired desserts have exploded in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They take flavors people already love and turn them into comforting, homemade treats. This mounds cake with coconut filling fits perfectly into that trend because it delivers familiar chocolate-and-coconut flavor in a more indulgent form.
Unlike eating a single candy bar, a cake version feels more generous and celebratory. It’s made to be sliced, shared, and enjoyed at gatherings. Because of that, desserts like mounds bar cake and other candy-inspired cakes often show up at birthdays, potlucks, and holidays. They’re nostalgic, yet still feel special.
Another reason for their popularity is flexibility. A mounds cake recipe can be adapted easily, whether you prefer a from-scratch chocolate cake or a quicker version using a cake mix. No matter the method, the flavor combination stays recognizable, which keeps people coming back for more.
What Makes This Homemade Mounds Cake Special
While there are many chocolate coconut desserts, this homemade version stands out for a few important reasons. First, the texture is carefully balanced. The chocolate cake stays soft and moist, while the coconut filling remains creamy instead of dry or crumbly. That contrast is what turns a good cake into a memorable one.
Second, this recipe focuses on flavor without being overly complicated. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, simple pantry staples come together to create a chocolate cake with a creamy coconut center that tastes like it came from a bakery. That simplicity is what makes this cake so approachable for home bakers.
Finally, this easy chocolate coconut cake is versatile. It works just as well for casual weekends as it does for special occasions. You can dress it up with a glossy chocolate topping or keep it simple with a light drizzle. Either way, the result is a rich, satisfying dessert that captures everything people love about a classic mounds candy bar dessert, but in cake form.
Another reason this mounds cake recipe remains so popular is its versatility. Once you understand the basics of a good chocolate base, the coconut filling becomes easy to adapt. For readers who want to master the foundation of a perfect chocolate cake, don’t miss our step-by-step chocolate cake recipe, a reliable base that pairs beautifully with coconut filling.
Ingredients for Mounds Cake With Coconut Filling
Ingredients for the Moist Chocolate Cake Layers
The foundation of a great mounds cake with coconut filling is a rich, moist chocolate cake. While the coconut center adds sweetness, the chocolate layers should be deep in flavor without being overly sweet. That balance is what keeps the cake from tasting heavy.
Most mounds cake recipes rely on simple, familiar ingredients. All-purpose flour creates structure, while cocoa powder delivers that classic chocolate taste. Sugar adds sweetness, but also helps keep the cake tender. Eggs bind everything together, and oil or butter ensures a soft, moist crumb. A small amount of baking powder or baking soda gives the cake just enough lift without making it dry.
Liquid ingredients are just as important. Milk or buttermilk adds moisture and richness, while warm water or coffee can be used to intensify the chocolate flavor. When combined properly, these ingredients create a moist chocolate cake with coconut that stays soft even after chilling.
Ingredients for the Creamy Coconut Filling
The coconut filling is what truly defines this cake. It’s inspired by the center of a classic Mounds bar and should be thick, creamy, and packed with coconut flavor. Sweetened shredded coconut is the star, providing both texture and sweetness.
Many bakers use sweetened condensed milk to bind the filling together. This creates a smooth, rich consistency that spreads easily between the cake layers. A touch of butter adds richness, while vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. Together, these ingredients form a coconut filling for cake that holds its shape without becoming stiff.
The key is balance. The filling should be sweet, but not overpowering. When paired with chocolate cake, it creates that familiar chocolate cake with creamy coconut center people expect from a homemade Mounds cake.
Optional Ingredients and Flavor Variations
One of the reasons this recipe is so popular is its flexibility. Depending on your taste, you can adjust both the cake and the filling. For example, using buttermilk instead of regular milk adds extra tenderness to the chocolate layers. Some bakers like to fold mini chocolate chips into the coconut filling for added texture.
If you’re short on time, you can even turn this into an easy chocolate coconut cake by starting with a cake mix and focusing your effort on the homemade coconut filling. No matter the variation, the goal stays the same: a flavorful, well-balanced homemade Mounds cake that tastes rich, comforting, and satisfying.
How to Make the Coconut Filling for Cake
Classic Coconut Filling With Sweetened Condensed Milk
The heart of any great mounds cake with coconut filling is the coconut layer itself. This filling is inspired by the center of a Mounds candy bar and is meant to be rich, creamy, and easy to spread. One of the most reliable ways to achieve that texture is by using sweetened condensed milk.
To start, shredded sweetened coconut is combined with condensed milk, creating a thick mixture that holds together without being dry. A small amount of melted butter adds richness, while vanilla extract enhances the coconut flavor. When mixed properly, the filling becomes soft and cohesive, making it ideal for layering between chocolate cake rounds.
This method is popular because it’s simple and consistent. Many old fashioned Mounds cake recipes rely on condensed milk because it provides both sweetness and structure. As a result, the coconut filling stays creamy even after the cake is chilled.
Old-Fashioned Coconut Filling vs. Modern Versions
While the classic version is widely loved, there are a few variations worth noting. Traditional, old-fashioned coconut fillings often use fewer ingredients and focus on texture rather than sweetness. These versions may include milk, sugar, and coconut cooked gently on the stove until thickened.
Modern recipes, on the other hand, lean toward convenience and richness. Sweetened condensed milk speeds up the process and delivers consistent results every time. That’s why it’s commonly used in easy Mounds cake with coconut filling recipes today.
Both approaches work well, but for home bakers, the modern method is usually more practical. It saves time, reduces guesswork, and still delivers that classic mounds bar cake flavor people expect.
Tips for a Thick, Creamy Coconut Center
To get the best results, a few simple tips make all the difference. First, avoid overmixing the filling. Stir just until everything is combined so the coconut retains its texture. Second, let the filling rest for a few minutes before assembling the cake. This allows the coconut to absorb moisture and thicken naturally.
It’s also important to spread the filling evenly, keeping it slightly away from the edges of the cake layers. This prevents it from squeezing out when the layers are stacked. When done correctly, the result is a chocolate cake with a creamy coconut center that slices cleanly and looks just as good as it tastes.
With the filling ready, you’re now set to move on to assembling the cake itself — where everything truly comes together.
Step-by-Step Mounds Cake Recipe
Preparing the Chocolate Cake Batter
To make a successful mounds cake with coconut filling, the chocolate cake layers must be rich, moist, and sturdy enough to hold the filling. Begin by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. This usually includes flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder or baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisking them together evenly helps prevent lumps and ensures consistent flavor.
Next, add the wet ingredients. Eggs, oil or melted butter, milk or buttermilk, and vanilla extract are typically added to the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. At this stage, warm water or coffee can be added slowly to enhance the chocolate flavor. The batter will be thin, which is normal and helps create a tender crumb.
Avoid overmixing, as that can make the cake dense. Once smooth, the batter is ready to be poured into prepared cake pans.
Baking the Cake Layers Evenly
Pour the batter evenly into greased and lined pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in a preheated oven and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
For even baking, rotate the pans halfway through if your oven has hot spots. Once baked, let the layers cool in the pans briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling completely is essential before adding the coconut filling, as warm cake can cause the filling to melt or slide.
This step is key to achieving a stable chocolate coconut cake with clean layers.
Filling and Assembling the Cake
Once the cake layers are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the coconut filling evenly across the top, leaving a small border around the edges. This helps keep the filling contained when the second layer is added.
Carefully place the second cake layer on top, pressing down gently to secure it. At this point, you’ll see the classic structure of a mounds bar cake taking shape, with a visible coconut center sandwiched between rich chocolate layers.
Adding the Chocolate Topping or Ganache
To finish the cake, a chocolate topping or ganache adds both flavor and visual appeal. A simple ganache made from melted chocolate and cream creates a smooth, glossy finish. Pour it slowly over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides for a bakery-style look.
This final layer seals everything together and enhances the chocolate flavor. The result is a homemade Mounds cake that looks impressive, slices beautifully, and delivers that signature chocolate-and-coconut taste in every bite.
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Mounds Cake With Coconut Filling – The Ultimate Chocolate Coconut Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Mounds cake with coconut filling features moist chocolate cake layers and a rich, creamy coconut center inspired by the classic Mounds candy bar. An easy, homemade dessert perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup warm water or brewed coffee
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Slowly stir in warm water or coffee until fully combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and vanilla until thick and creamy.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread coconut filling evenly over the top, leaving a small border.
- Place the second cake layer on top.
- (Optional) Heat cream until hot, pour over chocolate chips, stir until smooth, and spread over the cake.
- Chill for 20–30 minutes before slicing for best results.
Notes
Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner layers. Cake tastes even better the next day as flavors develop. Store refrigerated due to the coconut filling.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: mounds cake with coconut filling, mounds cake recipe, chocolate coconut cake, mounds bar cake, homemade mounds cake
Easy Variations of Mounds Cake
Easy Mounds Cake With Cake Mix
If you’re short on time, using a cake mix is a smart shortcut that still delivers great flavor. An easy Mounds cake with coconut filling can start with a boxed chocolate cake mix, prepared according to the package directions. This option works especially well for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Once the cake layers are baked, the homemade coconut filling is added just like in the classic version. The result is still rich, moist, and satisfying, making this one of the most popular versions of a mounds cake recipe for beginners.
If you enjoy experimenting with chocolate-based desserts, you might also like our classic Bundt cake recipe. It’s a versatile option that highlights rich chocolate flavor and works well for gatherings and celebrations.
Mounds Poke Cake Version
A Mounds poke cake is another crowd favorite. Instead of slicing and layering, the baked chocolate cake is poked with holes using the handle of a spoon or a skewer. Warm coconut filling or a coconut-based mixture is then poured over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
This version creates an ultra-moist chocolate cake with creamy coconut center, as the filling spreads throughout the cake rather than sitting in one layer. It’s easy to serve, stores well, and is perfect for potlucks or family events.
Mounds Cake With Marshmallows
For a sweeter, more playful twist, marshmallows can be added to the recipe. Some bakers mix mini marshmallows into the coconut filling, while others sprinkle them over the cake before adding the chocolate topping.
When baked or lightly melted, marshmallows add a soft, gooey texture that pairs well with coconut and chocolate. This variation is especially popular with kids and fans of nostalgic desserts.
Mounds Cake With Buttermilk for Extra Moisture
For those who prefer a richer crumb, using buttermilk in the chocolate cake batter is a great option. Buttermilk adds tenderness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the coconut filling.
This variation is often found in old fashioned Mounds cake with coconut filling recipes and is ideal if you want a cake that stays moist for days. The result is a deeply flavorful moist chocolate cake with coconut that tastes even better the next day.
Tips for a Moist Chocolate Cake With Coconut
How to Keep Chocolate Cake Soft and Rich
A truly great mounds cake with coconut filling starts with a chocolate cake that stays soft long after baking. One of the most important tips is measuring ingredients correctly. Too much flour can dry out the cake, so spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly.
Using oil instead of butter, or a combination of both, also helps lock in moisture. In addition, adding warm coffee or water to the batter enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake bitter. These small adjustments go a long way in creating a moist chocolate cake with coconut that doesn’t crumble or feel dense.
Another key factor is baking time. Overbaking is one of the most common reasons chocolate cake turns dry. Always check for doneness a few minutes early and remove the cake as soon as it’s set.
Preventing Dry Coconut Filling
The coconut filling should be creamy, not stiff or crumbly. To prevent dryness, make sure the coconut is well coated with liquid ingredients like sweetened condensed milk. Letting the filling rest briefly before assembling the cake also helps the coconut absorb moisture evenly.
It’s also important not to skimp on fat. Butter or cream adds richness and keeps the filling smooth. When done right, the filling creates that signature chocolate cake with creamy coconut center that defines a good Mounds-style dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is assembling the cake while the layers are still warm. This can cause the coconut filling to melt and slide out. Always allow the cake to cool completely before filling and frosting.
Another issue is spreading the filling too close to the edges. Leaving a small border helps prevent overflow when stacking the layers. Finally, avoid overmixing both the cake batter and the coconut filling. Gentle mixing preserves texture and keeps the cake light.
By following these tips, your homemade Mounds cake will look professional, slice cleanly, and taste just as good on day two as it does fresh from the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mounds Cake
What Is the Famous Coconut Cake Tom Cruise Made?
The coconut cake often associated with Tom Cruise is a white chocolate coconut Bundt cake from Doan’s Bakery in California. While it’s not a chocolate cake, it became famous because he reportedly sends it as a holiday gift to friends and colleagues. Unlike that version, a mounds cake with coconut filling focuses on rich chocolate layers paired with a sweet coconut center inspired by the Mounds candy bar.
Does a Mounds Bar Have Coconut in It?
Yes, a classic Mounds bar is made with sweetened coconut filling covered in dark chocolate. That exact flavor combination is what inspired desserts like mounds bar cake and other chocolate coconut recipes. A homemade Mounds cake recreates the same coconut-forward filling but layers it between moist chocolate cake instead of coating it in chocolate.
What Is the Most Delicious Cake in the World?
The answer depends on personal taste, but cakes that combine contrasting flavors and textures are often considered the most satisfying. Desserts like chocolate cake with creamy coconut center rank high because they balance richness, sweetness, and texture in every bite. That balance is one reason chocolate coconut cakes remain so popular worldwide.
What Is the 1-2-3-4 Cake Rule?
The 1-2-3-4 cake rule is a classic baking formula that uses: 1 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 3 cups flour, and 4 eggs. This traditional structure creates a reliable, tender cake base. While many modern recipes adapt these ratios, the rule is still helpful when making cakes like a moist chocolate cake with coconut, where structure and softness are equally important.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
Best Ways to Serve Mounds Cake
A mounds cake with coconut filling is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Chilling the cake for about 30 minutes before slicing helps the coconut center set, resulting in cleaner slices and a more defined layer. For presentation, use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. For special occasions, you can garnish each slice with extra shredded coconut or chocolate shavings to highlight the classic flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Coconut Cake
Proper storage keeps this cake moist and flavorful. Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Because of the coconut filling, refrigeration is recommended to maintain texture and freshness.
If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Frozen slices of chocolate coconut cake keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
Make-Ahead Tips for Special Occasions
This cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake the chocolate cake layers one day in advance, wrap them well, and store them at room temperature. The coconut filling can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated.
Assembling the cake the day before serving allows the flavors to meld, making the homemade Mounds cake taste even better. This makes it a reliable option for holidays, birthdays, and events where timing matters.
If nostalgic, crowd-pleasing desserts are your favorite, don’t miss our best honey bun cake, another moist and comforting classic that’s perfect for sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Mounds Cake
This mounds cake with coconut filling brings together everything people love about chocolate and coconut desserts in one unforgettable treat. With its moist chocolate layers and creamy coconut center, it captures the flavor of a classic candy bar while offering the comfort of a homemade cake.
Whether you choose the traditional layered version or one of the easy variations, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and guaranteed to impress. If you enjoy nostalgic desserts with rich flavor, you may also want to explore our
best honey bun cake, another moist and crowd-pleasing favorite.
From casual family dinners to special celebrations, this cake fits every occasion. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular in your dessert rotation.