Mounds Poke Cake

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12-16 slices

A Mounds Poke Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert inspired by the popular Mounds candy bar—combining a chocolate cake, creamy coconut filling, and a luscious chocolate topping. This easy-to-make poke cake features a moist chocolate cake with coconut filling that seeps into the holes of the cake, creating an unforgettable texture. Topped with a silky chocolate ganache, it’s the perfect treat for chocolate and coconut lovers alike.

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Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)
• Ingredients required for the cake mix (typically water, oil, and eggs—refer to the box instructions)

For the Coconut Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or a mix of dark and milk chocolate)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

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Equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spoon or spatula
• Fork (for poking the cake)
• Small saucepan (for chocolate ganache)
• Spatula (for spreading the topping)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

Time: 30-35 minutes

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box, typically adding water, oil, and eggs to the dry mix. You can also make a homemade chocolate cake from scratch if you prefer.
3. Bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Since oven temperatures vary, check the cake at the 30-minute mark and adjust the time if necessary.
4. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the baking dish.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Time: 5 minutes

1. After the cake has cooled slightly, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Be sure to poke deep enough to allow the filling to seep into the cake, but not so deep that the cake falls apart.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Filling

Time: 5 minutes

1. In a small bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the coconut is evenly distributed in the milk.
2. Pour the coconut mixture evenly over the top of the warm cake, using a spoon or spatula to spread it into the holes that you created earlier. The sweetened condensed milk will soak into the cake, creating a rich, creamy coconut layer.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping

Time: 5 minutes

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer (be careful not to bring it to a full boil).
2. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir gently until the chocolate chips have fully melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
3. Allow the ganache to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before pouring it over the top of the cake.

Step 5: Top the Cake

Time: 2 minutes

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the top, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the cake in a smooth, glossy layer.
2. Optionally, you can sprinkle additional shredded coconut over the top for extra texture and flavor.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Time: 2-3 hours

1. For the best results, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.
2. When ready to serve, cut into squares and enjoy this rich, indulgent dessert. Optionally, you can serve with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on the side.

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Notes:

• Cake Variations: You can use a devil’s food cake mix or even a chocolate fudge cake mix for a denser, richer flavor. If you prefer homemade, any chocolate cake recipe will work well.
• Coconut Options: For extra coconut flavor, use unsweetened shredded coconut in the filling for a more intense coconut taste. You can also toast the coconut before adding it to the filling for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
• Topping Variations: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are commonly used, you can experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate to adjust the sweetness of the topping. For an extra smooth ganache, you can add a tablespoon of butter while mixing in the chocolate chips.
• Make-Ahead: This cake stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, it often tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve slices of this Mounds poke cake with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a few fresh berries to balance out the richness. It’s great for potlucks, family gatherings, or any special occasion!

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Why You’ll Love This Cake:

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate cake, creamy coconut filling, and smooth chocolate ganache creates the ultimate indulgence for chocolate and coconut lovers.
• Easy to Make: Using a cake mix as the base makes this dessert quick and simple to prepare. There’s no complicated frosting or layering—just pour, poke, and top!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Mounds poke cake will be a hit every time.

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This Mounds Poke Cake is a delightful, decadent dessert with the perfect balance of chocolate and coconut flavors. It’s an easy and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!