Mounds Poke Cake

The Mounds poke cake is a decadent, tropical-inspired dessert that perfectly blends chocolate, coconut, and creamy textures. Inspired by the classic Mounds candy bar, this poke cake features moist chocolate cake infused with sweetened condensed milk, coconut cream, and a rich chocolate ganache topping. It’s easy to make yet impressively indulgent, making it a favorite for special occasions or anytime you crave a luscious treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Bursting with chocolate and coconut flavor just like a Mounds candy bar
  • Easy poke cake method for a moist, flavorful dessert
  • Simple ingredients come together quickly
  • Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or dessert tables

Ingredients

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 oz) can cream of coconut (such as Coco López)
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 (12 oz) bag semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

  1. Prepare chocolate cake batter according to box instructions.
  2. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed.
  3. While warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cake.
  4. Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the holes, allowing it to soak in.
  5. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and cream of coconut until smooth. Spread over the cake.
  6. Sprinkle shredded coconut evenly on top. Refrigerate cake for at least 1 hour.
  7. For the ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and butter in a bowl. Let sit 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  8. Pour ganache over the chilled cake and spread evenly.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 2 more hours before serving.

Serving Tips

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra shredded coconut or chocolate shavings for an elegant finish. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Mounds poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the creamy texture. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Timing Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 3+ hours
  • Total Time: About 4 hours
  • Yield: 12 servings

Optional Variations

  • Nut topping: Add toasted sliced almonds or pecans for crunch.
  • Dark chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache.
  • Coconut flakes: Swap sweetened shredded coconut for unsweetened for less sweetness.
  • Vegan option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut milk alternatives.
  • Mini poke cakes: Make in cupcake liners for individual servings.

Related Recipes

  • Almond Joy Poke Cake
  • Coconut Cream Pie
  • Chocolate Ganache Tart

Conclusion

The Mounds poke cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to prepare but full of rich chocolate and tropical coconut flavor. Whether for a family celebration or a simple indulgence, this cake will satisfy any sweet tooth with its luscious layers and creamy texture.

FAQs

Q1: What is a poke cake?
A: A poke cake is a moist cake where holes are poked into the baked cake and a liquid (like sweetened condensed milk) is poured over to soak in, creating extra flavor and moisture.

Q2: Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of mix?
A: Yes! Homemade or boxed cake mix works well for this recipe.

Q3: How long should I chill the cake?
A: At least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld and ganache to set nicely.

Q4: Can I freeze this poke cake?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before serving.

📖 Recipe

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Slice of Mounds poke cake with chocolate ganache and shredded coconut

Mounds Poke Cake


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  • Author: Maya
  • Total Time: 4 hours (includes chill time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This rich and creamy mounds poke cake combines chocolate cake, coconut cream, and ganache to recreate the beloved flavor of the Mounds candy bar in cake form.


Ingredients

Scale

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients on box)

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

1 (14 oz) can cream of coconut

1 (14 oz) bag sweetened shredded coconut

1 (12 oz) bag semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter


Instructions

1. Prepare cake mix and bake in a 9×13-inch pan according to package directions.

2. While still warm, poke holes all over the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.

3. Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it soak in.

4. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and cream of coconut until smooth.

5. Spread coconut mixture over the cooled cake and top with shredded coconut.

6. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour.

7. Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate chips and butter.

8. Let sit 5 minutes, then stir until smooth to make ganache.

9. Spread ganache over chilled cake and refrigerate at least 2 more hours before serving.

Notes

Add toasted coconut on top for extra crunch.

Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Substitute cream of coconut with coconut milk for a lighter version.

Can be made 1 day ahead for best flavor and texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice

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