Mounds Cake: A Tropical Symphony of Coconut and Chocolate Bliss
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with our Mounds Cake, a decadent dessert that celebrates the irresistible combination of coconut and chocolate. Inspired by the beloved Mounds candy bar, this cake is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring layers of moist coconut cake, velvety chocolate ganache, and a generous sprinkle of shredded coconut. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
Ingredients:
For the Coconut Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 cup coconut milk
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Topping:
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Extract:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the coconut extract.
5. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Coconut Milk:
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the coconut milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Bake the Cake Layers:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake layers to cool completely.
7. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly.
8. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache.
9. Toast the Coconut:
- Toast the sweetened shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the ganache-covered cake.
10. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the Mounds Cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the ganache to set. Slice and enjoy!
Conclusion:
Savor the tropical symphony of flavors with our Mounds Cake — a dessert that captures the essence of coconut and chocolate bliss. Share the love, share the recipe, and let the aroma of this decadent creation transport dessert lovers to a paradise of sweetness.