Mounds Brownies: A Decadent Fusion of Chocolate and Coconut
Introduction
Mounds Brownies are a legendary layered dessert that combines the rich, fudgy comfort of a classic brownie with the sweet, chewy, and tropical delight of a coconut filling reminiscent of the iconic Mounds candy bar. This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever a truly indulgent treat is required. It’s a beautiful marriage of textures and flavors that is surprisingly simple to create.
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A Brief History
The dessert is a classic example of American “back-of-the-box” ingenuity, evolving from community cookbooks and mid-20th-century home baking trends. It takes inspiration from the Mounds bar (introduced in 1920), which features a sweetened coconut center enrobed in dark chocolate. By translating this beloved candy combination into a brownie bar format, home bakers created a shareable, potluck-friendly dessert that has become a staple at gatherings across the country.
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Benefits & Appeal
· Crowd-Pleasing: Universally loved by both chocolate and coconut enthusiasts.
· Texture Paradise: Offers a fantastic contrast between dense brownie, chewy coconut, and smooth glaze.
· Simplicity: Utilizes a boxed mix as a reliable base, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
· Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld.
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Formation & Structure
The dessert is formed in three distinct, cohesive layers:
1. The Foundation: A dense, baked chocolate brownie base.
2. The Heart: A rich, moist, and sweet coconut filling baked directly onto the warm base.
3. The Finish: A simple chocolate glaze that seals and enrobes the coconut, creating the final “candy bar” effect.
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Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
· 1 box (18.3-19.5 oz) family-size brownie mix (for a 9×13-inch pan)
· Ingredients required on the box mix (typically eggs, vegetable oil, and water)
For the Coconut Layer:
· 5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
· 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
· 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
For the Chocolate Glaze:
· 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
· ½ cup unsalted butter
· 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
Optional Garnish:
· Flaky sea salt, sprinkled on top of the warm glaze.
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Methods & Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
1. Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix directions (typically 350°F or 325°F for dark/non-stick pans). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, mix the brownie batter according to the package directions.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
4. Bake for the minimum time recommended on the box (e.g., 20-25 minutes). The brownie will not be fully cooked, but it should be set on top. It will finish baking with the coconut layer. Remove from the oven and leave the oven on.
Step 2: Create & Add the Coconut Filling
1. While the brownie bakes, in a separate bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar. Mix vigorously with a spoon or spatula until a thick, cohesive, and sticky coconut mixture forms.
2. Immediately after removing the par-baked brownie from the oven, carefully drop spoonfuls of the coconut mixture over the hot brownie base.
3. Using slightly damp fingers or a spatula, gently press and spread the coconut mixture into an even layer, covering the entire brownie base. Be careful not to press so hard that you break the soft base.
Step 3: Bake the Combined Layers
1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the coconut topping is firm to the touch and has taken on a light golden color.
2. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely in the pan (this is crucial for clean slicing).
Step 4: Prepare and Apply the Chocolate Glaze
1. Once the bars are completely cool, prepare the glaze. In a microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, butter, and milk.
2. Heat gently, stirring frequently, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
3. Pour the warm glaze over the cooled coconut layer. Use an offset spatula to spread it into a smooth, even coating.
4. Optional: Sprinkle with a tiny bit of flaky sea salt for a sophisticated flavor contrast.
5. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
1. Using the parchment overhang, lift the entire slab of bars from the pan.
2. Use a sharp knife, wiped clean between cuts, to slice into squares or rectangles.
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Nutrition Information (Per Serving, approx. 1/24th of recipe)
· Calories: ~320 kcal
· Total Fat: ~16g
· Saturated Fat: ~10g
· Cholesterol: ~25mg
· Sodium: ~120mg
· Total Carbohydrates: ~42g
· Dietary Fiber: ~2g
· Sugars: ~34g
· Protein: ~3g
· Note: This is an estimate. Actual values vary based on specific brands used.
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For the Lovers (Variations & Pairings)
· Almond Joy Version: Press whole or slivered almonds onto the wet chocolate glaze before it sets.
· Dark Chocolate Twist: Use a dark chocolate brownie mix and dark chocolate chips for the glaze.
· Adult Variation: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dark rum or Malibu coconut rum to the coconut mixture.
· Perfect Pairing: Serve with a cold glass of milk, a bold cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness.
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Conclusion
The Mounds Brownie is more than just a bar; it’s a textural symphony and a testament to the magic of simple, well-paired ingredients. It successfully captures the nostalgic essence of a favorite candy bar in a form that’s meant to be shared and savored. While it is undoubtedly an indulgent treat, its straightforward method and guaranteed delicious results make it a timeless recipe to keep in your repertoire. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a coconut devotee, or someone who simply appreciates a phenomenal dessert, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your collection of beloved classics.