Mounds Poke Cake recipe
Indulge your sweet tooth with this irresistible Mounds Poke Cake, a perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy coconut. This easy-to-make dessert transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, ultra-moist cake that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Every bite delivers a decadent combination of silky chocolate and smooth coconut, reminiscent of the classic Mounds candy bar. The coconut cream and sweetened condensed milk soak into the cake, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a special treat, this make-ahead-friendly dessert can be served straight from the fridge. Top with toasted coconut or almond slivers for an extra touch of texture and flavor.
Mounds Poke Cake Ingredients: A Symphony of Rich Flavors
Chocolate Cake Mix: The foundation of this dessert, providing a rich, fudgy base that perfectly complements the coconut’s creaminess.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and enhances the cake’s moist texture, seeping into every bite for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Coconut Cream: A luscious, velvety component that infuses the cake with deep coconut flavor, creating that signature tropical twist.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Delivers a chewy, textured layer, balancing the richness with its sweet, nutty notes.
Chocolate Frosting: A smooth, rich layer that ties together the coconut and chocolate, creating an indulgent finish.
Recipe Tips
1. Use a Warm Cake for Better Absorption:
To get that perfectly moist texture, make sure to pour the sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream mixture over the cake while it’s still warm. This allows the liquid to seep into the holes more effectively, ensuring that every bite is infused with rich coconut flavor. Letting the cake absorb this creamy mixture while it cools ensures a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that defines the Mounds Poke Cake.
2. Microwaving the Frosting for Easy Spreading:
Microwaving the chocolate frosting for 20-30 seconds makes it easier to pour over the coconut layer. Be careful not to overheat; you want it pourable, not runny. This method allows for an even, smooth layer of chocolate that sets beautifully as it cools, giving the cake a glossy, indulgent finish. This step not only saves time but ensures a professional-looking dessert.
3. Let the Cake Chill for Best Flavor:
Refrigerating the cake for at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld together. This time in the fridge helps the coconut milk mixture to fully set into the cake, enhancing the moisture level and giving the dessert a richer, more developed taste. For best results, you can make the cake a day ahead—perfect for gatherings or when you want to plan ahead!
What to Serve with Mounds Poke Cake
1. Fresh Berries:
Pairing Mounds Poke Cake with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries adds a burst of tangy freshness that complements the rich chocolate and coconut. The tartness of the berries cuts through the cake’s sweetness, balancing the flavors and offering a delightful contrast.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside a slice of this cake creates a classic pairing. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the dense, moist cake, offering a creamy element that enhances the coconut and chocolate flavors. It’s a perfect duo for a refreshing dessert experience.
3. Coffee or Espresso:
A hot cup of coffee or a shot of espresso makes an excellent companion for Mounds Poke Cake. The deep, robust flavors of the coffee provide a bold counterpoint to the cake’s sweetness, creating a balanced finish to any dessert course. Plus, it’s an ideal way to enjoy the richness of the cake without feeling overwhelmed by the sweetness.
FAQ
1. Can I make this Mounds Poke Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is ideal for making ahead! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors have time to meld together, and the cake becomes even more moist.
2. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! While chocolate frosting complements the Mounds bar flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like coconut or vanilla frosting. For a twist, try using dark chocolate or even a ganache for a richer taste.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The cake will stay moist and delicious during this time. Just be sure to keep it chilled, as the coconut cream mixture can become too soft at room temperature.
4. Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream?
Coconut cream is recommended for its thicker consistency and richer flavor, which enhances the cake’s texture. However, if coconut milk is all you have on hand, make sure to use a full-fat version to retain some of the richness.
Mounds Poke Cake
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk 14 oz can
- Coconut cream 15 oz can
- Chocolate cake mix plus ingredients as listed on the package
- Sweetened shredded coconut 7 oz package
- Chocolate frosting 12 oz container
- Optional: Toasted coconut or almond slivers for garnish
Instructions
- Follow the package directions to prepare the chocolate cake mix, baking it in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
- While the cake remains warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to create holes approximately 1 inch apart across the surface.
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream.
- Evenly distribute the coconut milk mixture over the warm cake, allowing it to penetrate the holes and soak in completely.
- Leave the cake to cool down to room temperature, around 1-2 hours, during which the liquid mixture will be absorbed.
- After the cake has cooled, evenly scatter the shredded sweetened coconut over the top.
- Heat the chocolate frosting in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until it reaches a pourable consistency. Drizzle it over the coconut layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- If desired, embellish the top with toasted coconut or almond slivers.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour before slicing, allowing it to firm up.
- Serve cold, either on its own or paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!
