This Mounds Poke Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for coconut lovers. With its rich chocolate and creamy coconut flavors, this cake offers an indulgent treat suitable for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. The moist texture and make-ahead convenience make it a standout dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses a simple chocolate cake mix, making preparation quick and hassle-free.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate, coconut cream, and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich flavor profile that’s utterly irresistible.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this cake in advance and refrigerate it for easy serving at parties or family gatherings.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it chilled on its own, with whipped cream, or alongside vanilla ice cream for added delight.
- Showstopper Presentation: The layers of frosting and shredded coconut create an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will help you make this Mounds Poke Cake effortlessly. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan (9×13)
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Microwave
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan (9×13): This size ensures even baking and ample space for the moist cake.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake without damaging it.
- Spatula: Helps to spread the frosting evenly for a smooth finish.
Ingredients
This Mounds Poke Cake is a coconut lover’s dream dessert loaded with chocolate and coconut flavors in an ultra-moist, make-ahead friendly cake!
Ingredients:
– 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)
– 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
– 15 oz can coconut cream
– 7 oz package sweetened shredded coconut
– 12 oz container chocolate frosting
– Toasted coconut or almond slivers for garnish (optional)
How to Make Mounds Poke Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the chocolate cake mix box.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix as directed on the box.
- Bake in a greased 9×13 baking pan until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top, about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Make Coconut Soak
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream until fully combined.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to seep down into all the holes.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool completely to room temperature, about 1-2 hours. As it cools, it will absorb the coconut soak.
Step 5: Add Shredded Coconut
- Once cooled, sprinkle shredded sweetened coconut evenly over the top of the cake.
Step 6: Frosting Time
- Microwave the chocolate frosting for 20-30 seconds until pourable.
- Pour it over the coconut layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 7: Garnish (Optional)
- If desired, garnish with toasted coconut or almond slivers.
Step 8: Refrigerate Before Serving
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow it to set up fully.
Step 9: Serve Chilled
- Serve chilled, either on its own or with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!
How to Serve Mounds Poke Cake
Mounds Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these ideas will elevate your cake presentation and flavor.
Classic Serving Ideas
- Whipped Cream – A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and balances the rich chocolate and coconut flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that complements the cake perfectly.
Garnish Options
- Toasted Coconut – Sprinkle toasted coconut on top for added crunch and a deeper coconut flavor.
- Almond Slivers – Add almond slivers for a nutty bite that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Special Occasions
- Birthday Parties – Use colorful candles to make it festive for birthdays; the cake’s moist texture makes it a hit among kids and adults alike.
- Holiday Gatherings – Present this cake on a decorative platter during holidays to impress your guests with its stunning look and delicious taste.
How to Perfect Mounds Poke Cake
Perfecting your Mounds Poke Cake ensures every bite is delightful. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always check the expiration dates on your cake mix and dairy products for optimal flavor.
- Poke Holes Properly – Make sure to poke enough holes in the cake so the coconut milk soak can seep through, ensuring maximum moisture.
- Cool Completely – Allow the cake to cool fully before adding toppings; this prevents melting and helps maintain texture.
- Microwave Frosting Carefully – Heat chocolate frosting gradually to avoid overheating; stir in between intervals for an even pourable consistency.
- Chill Before Serving – Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour after frosting; this helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to add different extracts like almond or vanilla to the coconut milk mixture for unique flavor twists.
Best Side Dishes for Mounds Poke Cake
Pairing side dishes with Mounds Poke Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this dessert beautifully.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These treats enhance the chocolate theme while adding freshness.
- Coconut Macaroons – For coconut lovers, these chewy cookies echo flavors found in the poke cake.
- Cheese Platter – A mix of cheeses can provide savory contrast, especially sharp cheeses that cut through sweetness.
- Coffee or Tea – Brewed beverages offer warmth and richness, making them perfect companions for dessert.
- Chocolate Mousse – A light chocolate mousse offers an elegant touch that pairs well without overpowering the primary dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mounds Poke Cake, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding toppings is crucial. If you skip this, the layers may blend together instead of soaking properly.
- Not Poking Enough Holes: Make sure to poke holes about 1 inch apart across the entire cake. This ensures that the coconut milk mixture seeps in evenly.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients for your frosting and coconut cream. Cold ingredients can cause the frosting to harden and not spread well.
- Overbaking the Cake: Check your cake a few minutes early. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, which won’t hold onto the delicious coconut soak properly.
- Forgetting to Refrigerate: Refrigeration is essential for setting up your Mounds Poke Cake. Don’t skip this step if you want it to slice beautifully!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if an airtight container isn’t available.
Freezing Mounds Poke Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for freezing.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Mounds Poke Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat until warmed, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mounds Poke Cake?
Mounds Poke Cake is a delightful dessert featuring layers of chocolate cake soaked in a rich coconut mixture, topped with chocolate frosting and shredded coconut.
Can I make Mounds Poke Cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is perfect for make-ahead preparations. It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
How do I customize my Mounds Poke Cake?
You can customize this recipe by adding nuts like almonds, drizzling caramel sauce, or using different flavors of frosting!
Is there an alternative to sweetened condensed milk?
You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a homemade version using evaporated milk and sugar if desired.
Final Thoughts
Mounds Poke Cake is an irresistible dessert combining chocolate and coconut flavors that everyone will love. Its moist texture makes it perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors!
Mounds Poke Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Mounds Poke Cake, a heavenly dessert that combines chocolate and coconut in every bite. Perfect for gatherings, this moist cake features a luscious chocolate base soaked in a creamy coconut mixture and topped with decadent chocolate frosting and sweetened shredded coconut. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a holiday feast, this make-ahead treat is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 15 oz can coconut cream
- 7 oz package sweetened shredded coconut
- 12 oz container chocolate frosting
- Optional: Toasted coconut or almond slivers for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven as directed on the cake mix box. Prepare and bake the chocolate cake mix in a greased 9×13 baking pan until done.
- While warm, poke holes across the top of the cake using a wooden spoon.
- In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream; pour over the warm cake.
- Let the cake cool completely; sprinkle with shredded coconut.
- Microwave frosting until pourable, then pour it over the coconut layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
