If you’re a fan of decadent desserts and love the delicious combination of chocolate and coconut, you’re going to adore this Mounds Brownies Recipe. These brownies bring together a rich, fudgy chocolate base topped with a luscious, chewy coconut layer, all finished with a glossy, smooth chocolate topping that sets into a perfect bite. It’s like your favorite Mounds candy bar transformed into a homemade treat that’s not only spectacularly indulgent but also surprisingly easy to make. Whether for a cozy night in or a party dessert, these Mounds Brownies will quickly become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to achieving the perfect balance of textures and flavors in your Mounds Brownies Recipe. Each one plays a key role in creating that irresistible mix of fudgy chocolate, sweet coconut, and silky topping that makes this dessert stand out.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 2 sticks, melted): Adds richness and moisture to the brownie base, ensuring a fudgy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/4 cups): Sweetens the brownies evenly and helps create that soft crumb.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Introduces subtle caramel notes and adds chewiness.
- Large eggs (4): Provide structure and help bind all ingredients together.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp total): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, inviting notes.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Gives structure to the brownies while keeping them tender.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Brings deep chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Helps the brownies rise slightly for perfect texture.
- Chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): Adds pockets of melted chocolate throughout the brownies.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient for the coconut layer, creating a chewy and sweet contrast.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1/4 cup): Binds the coconut flakes together and adds creamy sweetness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Used for the topping to provide a smooth, glossy finish.
How to Make Mounds Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything is ready to go the moment your batter is mixed. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper so the brownies slide out easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and shiny. The sugars dissolve into the butter, creating a luscious base. Next, add the eggs one by one along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring until everything is fully combined and glossy.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This mixes the leavening and dry ingredients evenly, preventing lumps and ensuring consistent texture. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, folding carefully to keep the batter light but well blended. If you love extra chocolatey bursts, gently fold in the optional chocolate chips now.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them starting at 20 minutes—insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the delicious coconut layer.
Step 5: Prepare the Coconut Layer
Mix together the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl. This sticky mixture will create the perfect chewy topping that reminds you exactly why these are called Mounds Brownies.
Step 6: Add the Coconut on Top of the Brownies
After the brownies have cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the coconut mixture evenly over the surface. This layer sticks beautifully to the brownies, offering a sweet and textured contrast to the fudgy base.
Step 7: Make the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between to prevent burning. The result is a silky, glossy chocolate layer ready to crown your creation.
Step 8: Coat and Set the Brownies
Pour the melted chocolate over the coconut layer and spread it out evenly. Let the brownies cool completely before placing them in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This waiting period allows the topping to set perfectly, giving you that classic Mounds bar experience in every bite.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
Once the chocolate layer is firm, cut the brownies into squares and serve. You’ll be greeted with a lush, layered treat packed with chocolaty goodness and that unforgettable coconut sweetness.
How to Serve Mounds Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Mounds Brownies to the next level, sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or a sea salt pinch over the chocolate topping before it sets. This adds a lovely crunch and intensifies the coconut flavor, while the salt balances the sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert combo. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries also complement the rich chocolate and coconut, adding a bright, fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving Mounds Brownies Recipe bars on a wooden board garnished with edible flowers or alongside a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a pop of color. You can also stack smaller squares in layers for a brownie tower that’s both elegant and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mounds Brownies can be stored airtight in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled preserves the integrity of the chocolate topping and ensures the coconut layer stays delightfully chewy.
Freezing
If you want to save these treats for later, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For a warm, gooey experience, gently reheat brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and coconut without making them too hot, offering a taste sensation close to freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Using unsweetened coconut will change the sweetness level of the coconut layer, making the brownies less sweet overall. You can add a little extra sweetened condensed milk or sugar to compensate if desired, but the traditional Mounds Brownies Recipe shines with sweetened coconut for that perfect flavor balance.
Is there a gluten-free version of this Mounds Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that has a 1:1 ratio with regular flour. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The brownies will still be fudgy and delicious with this swap.
Can I make the coconut layer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coconut mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring it back to room temperature before spreading it over the brownies for easier handling.
Why do I need to refrigerate the brownies after adding the chocolate topping?
Refrigerating allows the chocolate topping to harden and set properly, creating a firm, glossy finish that holds its shape when cut. Without chilling, the topping might stay too soft or messy.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the topping?
Definitely! Dark chocolate will give your brownies a deeper, more intense flavor with less sweetness. This variation is great if you prefer a richer chocolate taste or want to balance the sweet coconut layer.
Final Thoughts
This Mounds Brownies Recipe is a true showstopper that’s perfect for anytime you crave the magical blend of chocolate and coconut. It’s simple enough to whip up without fuss, yet it will have everyone asking for seconds thanks to that heavenly texture and taste combination. Go ahead and try making these brownies—once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re an instant favorite!
