Mouthwatering Mounds Layer Cake

Are you looking for a decadent, chocolatey treat to share with friends and family? Look no further than this delectable Mounds Layer Cake! With its rich, creamy layers, crunchy chocolate chips sprinkled over the top, and sweet coconut filling, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

A spin on the classic American layer cake, the Mounds Layer Cake has a unique flavor combination of dark chocolate and sweet coconut that results in a treat unlike any other. It starts off with moist, fluffy layers of chocolate cake that are made with mainly cocoa powder for a rich and intense flavor. Then, each layer is spread with a creamy coconut-flavored buttercream that boasts a velvety texture.

Unusual Ingredients

The main highlight of this cake has to be the addition of sweetened condensed milk and shredded coconut. The condensed milk serves to keep the layers moist and gives the cake an added depth of flavor, while the coconut adds a slightly chewy texture to the crumb and a hint of tropical flavor. This unusual combination of ingredients is what really sets the Mounds Layer Cake apart from all other layer cakes.

Finishing Touches

After the layers are assembled, they’re topped with a layer of rich chocolate ganache, as well as a generous sprinkling of chocolate chips. The ganache serves to create a glossy, crackly sheen on the cake, while the chips give the top of the cake a crunchy texture. The finishing touches on this cake make it the perfect showstopper for any special occasion!

Cultural Influence

This recipe draws on American baking techniques and flavors, including the classic layer cake, all while incorporating a unique element from the flavors of Hawaii. The addition of sweetened condensed milk and coconut to the recipe is a nod to the Hawaiian-style dessert bars known as Mounds Cake, which come in a variety of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or looking for an indulgent dessert to surprise your family, this Mounds Layer Cake is sure to be a hit!

Mounds Layer Cake Recipe

Ingredients:
-1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
-½ cup cocoa powder
-2 cups granulated sugar
-1 teaspoon baking powder
-½ teaspoon baking soda
-1 teaspoon salt
-1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-3 large eggs
-½ cup canola oil
-1 cup buttermilk
-1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Filling:
-2 and ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
-1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
-1 teaspoon pure coconut extract
-¼ teaspoon salt
-3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Ganache:
-1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
-¼ cup heavy cream
-2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat until combined. Add the oil, buttermilk, and vanilla, and mix on low speed until just combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Divide evenly among the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes.
6. To make the filling, in the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the confectioners’ sugar and butter until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the condensed milk, coconut extract, and salt, and beat on low speed until combined. Beat in the shredded coconut.
7. To assemble the cake, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread with one cup of the filling. Repeat with the remaining layers.
8. To make the ganache, in a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, cream, and butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
9. Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, then sprinkle with the chocolate chips. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!