We’ve got a real treat for you with our Mounds Poke Cake – a chocolate-coconut delight that’s inspired by the classic candy bar we all know and love. It’s the perfect mashup of rich flavors and easy baking making it a go-to for busy days or sweet gatherings.
Using a simple cake mix we streamline the process without skimping on taste. This moist poke cake soaks up every bit of goodness ensuring a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Join us as we bring this nostalgic favorite to your kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Mounds Poke Cake using cake mix, we gather high-quality ingredients that blend rich chocolate and coconut flavors for a moist, nostalgic treat. We’ll list them in the order they’re used, from preparing the cake base to adding the poke and toppings.
Cake Base Ingredients
- Chocolate cake mix: 1 box (15.25 ounces), such as devil’s food for that deep chocolate base we love in our Mounds Poke Cake
- Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature for better mixing and rise
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup, to keep the cake tender and moist
- Water: 1 cup, for combining with the mix as directed
Poke and Filling Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can (14 ounces), chilled to help it seep into the cake holes more effectively
- Coconut cream: 1 cup, full-fat for a creamy texture that echoes the Mounds candy bar essence
- Shredded sweetened coconut: 2 cups, toasted lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor and crunch
Topping Ingredients
- Hot fudge sauce: 1 jar (12 ounces), warmed slightly for easy pouring over the poked cake
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 1 cup, melted for a glossy finish that ties everything together
- Whipped topping: 1 container (8 ounces), such as Cool Whip, for a light, airy layer on top
| Ingredient Category | Key Items | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Cake Base | Chocolate cake mix | 1 box (15.25 ounces) |
| Eggs | 3 large | |
| Poke and Filling | Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 ounces) |
| Toppings | Shredded sweetened coconut | 2 cups |
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Mounds Poke Cake with cake mix, let’s ensure we have the essential tools on hand. These items will help us create a moist, flavorful chocolate-coconut dessert efficiently and safely.
We recommend gathering the following equipment, organized by the stages of preparation:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients and another for wet ones – to keep our chocolate cake mix batter smooth and lump-free.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning ingredients like eggs, oil, and water, ensuring our cake turns out perfectly every time.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric mixer (handheld or stand) or a sturdy whisk to blend the cake mix thoroughly, achieving that ideal batter consistency without overmixing.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Pan: A standard 9×13 inch baking pan greased and ready, as it’s the perfect size for our poke cake base to bake evenly and absorb the coconut filling.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A heat-resistant wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring fillings like sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream, and for gently poking holes in the baked cake.
- Saucepan: A medium saucepan for warming ingredients such as hot fudge sauce or chocolate chips, allowing for easy melting and pouring over the cake.
- Cooling Rack: A wire cooling rack to let the cake cool properly after baking, preventing sogginess and ensuring the toppings set correctly.
- Skewer or Fork: A simple bamboo skewer or fork for creating the signature holes in the cake, which let the delicious fillings seep in for maximum flavor infusion.
With these tools prepared, we’re set to move seamlessly from mixing our ingredients to assembling this irresistible treat.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and tools, let’s guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare our irresistible Mounds Poke Cake. We’ll ensure each stage delivers a moist, chocolatey base infused with creamy coconut flavors for a nostalgic treat.
Prepare the Cake Mix
First, preheat your oven to 350°F as specified on the chocolate cake mix box. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box of chocolate cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 cup water. Using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, blend the ingredients until smooth and batter-like, creating a rich, velvety mixture that promises a decadent foundation for our cake.
Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring full coverage for uniform baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As it bakes, the cake will rise to a fluffy, tender texture with a deep chocolate aroma that fills your kitchen, setting the stage for the signature poke technique.
Poke the Holes
Once the cake is out of the oven and cooled for about 10 minutes on a wire rack, grab a wooden skewer or fork and poke holes across the entire surface, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This step is crucial as it allows the luscious fillings to seep in, transforming the cake into a moist, flavor-packed delight that echoes the gooey center of a Mounds bar.
Add the Filling
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup coconut cream until fully combined and creamy. Slowly pour this mixture over the poked cake, using a spatula to gently spread it and ensure it seeps into the holes. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb, resulting in a ultra-moist texture with a sweet, tropical coconut essence that enhances every bite.
Top with Coconut
While the filling sets, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded sweetened coconut evenly over the cake’s surface, pressing lightly to adhere. For added indulgence, drizzle 1/2 cup of hot fudge sauce on top, creating a glossy, chocolate-coconut layer that adds crunch and visual appeal, making our cake as enticing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Chill and Serve
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled, to let the flavors meld into a cohesive, refreshing dessert. When ready, slice into squares and serve chilled, revealing layers of moist chocolate and creamy coconut that will delight your guests at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Mounds Poke Cake is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it ahead to save time while keeping flavors fresh and irresistible. Follow these simple steps to make and store the cake without compromising its moist chocolate-coconut goodness.
Preparing the Cake in Advance
To get a head start, we bake and assemble the Mounds Poke Cake as outlined in the previous steps. Once the cake has cooled completely after chilling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. This method ensures the filling seeps in fully, creating that signature creamy texture.
Storage Options
For short-term storage, refrigerate the fully assembled cake in its baking pan. It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days when stored at 40°F (4°C) or below. If you need longer preservation, freezing is ideal—wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap, then in foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-5 days | Keep covered to maintain moisture; serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving; avoid microwaving to preserve the cake’s texture. |
Thawing and Serving Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy our Mounds Poke Cake, thaw a frozen cake in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours. Once thawed, add fresh toppings like whipped cream or extra shredded coconut for a just-baked feel. We recommend serving within 24 hours of thawing to maximize the rich, indulgent coconut-chocolate blend that makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser. Always use a sharp knife for clean slices, enhancing the visual appeal at gatherings.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed guiding you through this Mounds Poke Cake adventure. It’s a straightforward treat that captures the essence of simple indulgence.
This recipe’s perfect for creating memorable moments with loved ones. Try it out and make it your go-to dessert—we’re confident it’ll impress every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mounds Poke Cake?
Mounds Poke Cake is a chocolate-coconut dessert inspired by the classic candy bar. It’s made with a simple chocolate cake mix that’s poked and filled with creamy ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream, then topped with fudge and whipped topping. This easy recipe is perfect for busy days or gatherings, offering a moist, flavorful treat that’s simple to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for Mounds Poke Cake?
You’ll need ingredients for the cake base (chocolate cake mix, eggs, oil, and water), poke and filling (sweetened condensed milk, coconut cream, and shredded coconut), and toppings (hot fudge sauce, chocolate chips, and whipped topping). These combine to create a rich, moist cake with layers of chocolate and coconut flavor, making it a quick dessert option.
What equipment is required to make Mounds Poke Cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, a 9×13-inch baking pan, a wooden spoon or spatula, a saucepan, a cooling rack, and a skewer or fork for poking holes. These items ensure smooth preparation and even baking, helping you create this dessert efficiently.
How do I prepare Mounds Poke Cake?
Start by preheating the oven and mixing the cake batter with chocolate cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan, then poke holes in the warm cake. Pour a mixture of sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream over it, add shredded coconut and hot fudge, chill, and top with whipped topping before serving. The process takes about 1 hour plus chilling time.
Can I make Mounds Poke Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is ideal for make-ahead preparation. Bake and assemble it up to a day in advance, then refrigerate. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh toppings before serving to maintain its moist texture and flavors, making it perfect for busy schedules.
How should I store Mounds Poke Cake?
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for 3-5 days to keep it moist. For longer preservation, freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add fresh whipped topping before serving to preserve its texture and taste. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.