If you have a craving for something rich, indulgent, and utterly irresistible, the Mounds Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a fudgy chocolate brownie base topped with a luscious, sweet coconut layer just like the iconic Mounds candy bar, all finished off with a silky, glossy chocolate topping that sets to perfection. This dessert is an absolute showstopper that combines the best of chewy, creamy, and crunchy textures in every bite. Once you try this Mounds Brownies Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite treats to bake and share with loved ones!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mounds Brownies Recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building a moist, chocolatey foundation, creating a coconut layer that’s both sweet and creamy, or forming a shiny, rich chocolate topping that brings it all together.
- Unsalted butter: Using melted butter ensures the brownies stay wonderfully moist and tender.
- Granulated and light brown sugar: This combo gives your brownies the perfect sweetness with a subtle hint of caramel from the brown sugar.
- Large eggs: They bind everything together and add to the fudgy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm and comforting depth of flavor.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone for structure without weighing down the brownies.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that deep chocolate intensity you adore.
- Salt and baking powder: Salt enhances flavor balance, while baking powder helps with just the right rise.
- Chocolate chips (optional): For those who like a little extra melty chocolate surprise inside.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: This creates the signature coconut layer—sweet, chewy, and unforgettable.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Binds the coconut and adds creamy sweetness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter (for topping): Melted together to create the glossy, decadent finishing touch.
How to Make Mounds Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your brownies come out perfectly without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding the vanilla extract last to infuse that lovely aroma and flavor into your batter.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully blended but be careful not to overmix—it keeps the brownies tender.
Step 4: Add Optional Chocolate Chips and Bake
If you love extra chocolate bursts, gently fold in half a cup of chocolate chips now. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, signaling that perfect fudgy texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Coconut Layer
While the brownies rest for about 10 minutes, mix together the sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. This dreamy coconut mixture will give your brownies that true Mounds candy bar feel.
Step 6: Spread the Coconut Layer
Carefully evenly spread the coconut layer over the slightly cooled brownies, creating a thick, luscious barrier of coconut goodness that promises chewy delight.
Step 7: Create and Add the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the butter, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy. Pour this luscious chocolate over the coconut layer and gently spread it to cover every inch evenly.
Step 8: Chill and Cut
Allow your masterpiece to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least an hour so the topping sets beautifully. Once chilled, slice into squares and prepare to be amazed by the layers of flavor and texture.
How to Serve Mounds Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While the Mounds Brownies Recipe is stunning on its own, you can sprinkle some toasted shredded coconut on top for a bit of crunch and enhanced coconut aroma. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finish perfect for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle caramel sauce on the side for a dreamy dessert plate. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream complement the rich chocolate and coconut flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the brownies on a decorative platter lined with tropical leaves or bright napkins to echo the coconut theme. Or cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and serve on mini skewers for a fun finger-food dessert option everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover brownies stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chocolate topping stays firm and the coconut layer remains delightfully chewy, ensuring each bite stays fresh and indulgent.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Mounds Brownies Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy warm brownies, gently microwave a piece for 15-20 seconds or let them come to room temperature if frozen. Avoid overheating to preserve the chewy coconut and shiny chocolate topping without melting it too much.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut?
Using unsweetened coconut is possible, but keep in mind it will reduce the overall sweetness and might change the chewy texture of the coconut layer. If you choose unsweetened, you might want to add a bit more sweetened condensed milk or sugar to balance.
Is it okay to substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate can add a rich, slightly bitter edge that pairs wonderfully with the sweet coconut layer. Just choose a quality chocolate for the best melting and flavor results.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure. Just make sure the baking powder you use is also gluten-free to keep the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
What if I don’t have a microwave to melt the topping?
No worries! You can melt the chocolate chips and butter gently using a double boiler on the stove. Stir continuously until smooth, then proceed with pouring it over the coconut layer.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked before adding the coconut layer?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the baked brownies; ideally, it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures the base is cooked through but still fudgy enough to support the coconut and chocolate layers.
Final Thoughts
This Mounds Brownies Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that balances luscious chocolate and sweet coconut in a way that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully fresh. Whether you’re baking for a party, family treat, or just because, these brownies deliver every time—rich, chewy, and absolutely crave-worthy. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy of this chocolate-coconut delight with those you love!
Print
Mounds Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Mounds Brownies featuring a rich chocolate base topped with a sweet coconut layer and a glossy chocolate topping. This homemade treat combines the classic flavors of chocolate and coconut in a layered brownie perfect for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
For the Coconut Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined to create a rich batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips if using for extra chocolaty goodness.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool slightly as you prepare the next layer.
- Prepare the Coconut Layer: In a small bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well mixed, forming a sticky coconut topping.
- Apply the Coconut Layer: After the brownies have cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the coconut mixture evenly over the surface to create a distinct layer.
- Make the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter together, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and completely melted.
- Finish the Brownies: Pour the melted chocolate over the coconut layer and spread evenly with a spatula. Let the brownies cool fully, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the topping firmly.
- Serve: Once the topping is set, cut the brownies into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a delightful dessert experience.
Notes
- Ensure not to overbake the brownies; take them out when a toothpick has moist crumbs for a fudgy texture.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the topping firm and fresh.
- If you prefer a less sweet coconut layer, reduce the sweetened condensed milk slightly.
- Optional chocolate chips in the brownie batter add extra texture and bursts of melted chocolate.
