Here is a comprehensive guide to creating Mounds Brownies, a decadent dessert that combines a fudgy brownie base with a sweet, chewy coconut center, all topped with a rich chocolate layer. This recipe is a homemade tribute to the classic Mounds candy bar.
The Ultimate Mounds Brownie Recipe
Introduction
Imagine the perfect bite: a dense, fudgy brownie, then a layer of sweet, chewy coconut, all enrobed in a silky blanket of chocolate frosting. That is the magic of Mounds Brownies. This dessert is a fantastic hybrid, taking the beloved flavor profile of a Mounds candy bar—dark chocolate and sweet coconut—and transforming it into a rich, shareable bar cookie. They are incredibly easy to make, starting with a convenient brownie mix, which makes them a perfect choice for potlucks, bake sales, or a special weekend treat for the family. The combination of textures and the nostalgic flavor will make these brownies a new favorite.
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History of the Flavor Profile
The inspiration for this dessert comes directly from the Mounds candy bar, which was first introduced by the Peter Paul Candy Manufacturing Company in 1921. The original Mounds bar featured a generous portion of sweetened, shredded coconut dipped in dark chocolate. Its sibling, the Almond Joy, followed in 1946, adding an almond on top and using milk chocolate. The pure, simple combination of coconut and dark chocolate has been a beloved flavor for over a century. This brownie recipe pays homage to that classic pairing, grounding the sweet coconut in a rich, chocolatey brownie base that echoes the candy bar’s dark chocolate coating.
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Benefits (Why You’ll Love These Brownies)
· Simplicity: By using a boxed brownie mix, this recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort for a dessert that tastes completely homemade.
· Texture Sensation: You get three distinct textures in every bite: the fudgy brownie, the chewy coconut filling, and the smooth, creamy frosting.
· Perfect for a Crowd: Baked in a 9×13 pan, this recipe yields a generous number of servings, making it ideal for sharing.
· Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of chocolate and coconut is a timeless classic that appeals to both kids and adults.
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Formation (Building the Layers)
This dessert is built in three distinct layers, each playing a crucial role in the final product:
1. The Foundation: A dense, fudgy brownie base provides a sturdy and rich chocolate platform.
2. The Heart: A sweet, sticky coconut filling, made by combining shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar. This layer is the chewy, sweet core.
3. The Crown: A simple layer of store-bought chocolate frosting creates a glossy, decadent finish that perfectly complements the sweet filling and rich base.
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For the Lovers
This recipe is dedicated to all the lovers of coconut and chocolate. It’s for the Mounds bar enthusiasts who wish their favorite candy came in a bigger, more shareable format. It’s for the bakers who appreciate a simple, no-fuss recipe that delivers maximum deliciousness. And it’s for anyone who believes that more is more when it comes to dessert.
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The Big Recipe
Ingredients
· For the Brownie Layer:
· 1 box (18-19 oz) brownie mix (for a 9×13 pan)
· Ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
· For the Coconut Layer:
· 5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
· 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
· 1 cup powdered sugar
· For the Topping:
· 1 container (16 oz) chocolate frosting
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Instructions / Method
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
1. Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions (usually 350°F or 175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.
5. Bake according to package directions. Be careful not to overbake; you want them fudgy. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial; if the brownies are warm, the coconut layer will melt and become a mess.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Filling
1. While the brownies are cooling, make the filling. In a large bowl, combine the 5 cups of shredded coconut, the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, and the 1 cup of powdered sugar.
2. Stir until everything is very well combined. The mixture will be thick and sticky. It should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
1. Once the brownies are completely cool, drop spoonfuls of the coconut mixture all over the top.
2. Using a spatula or your (lightly greased) hands, gently press the coconut mixture into an even, firm layer that covers the entire surface of the brownies.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
1. Remove the lid and foil seal from the container of chocolate frosting. Microwave the frosting for 15-20 seconds to make it pourable. Stir until smooth.
2. Pour the melted frosting over the coconut layer. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly, covering the coconut completely.
Step 5: Set and Serve
1. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the frosting to set completely. This makes cutting them into clean squares much easier.
2. Once set, cut into bars. For the cleanest cuts, wipe your knife clean between each slice. Serve cold or at room temperature.
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Nutrition Information
(Please note: This is an estimate and will vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used. It is calculated for one serving, assuming 24 servings per pan.)
· Serving Size: 1 brownie (1/24 of recipe)
· Calories: Approximately 350-400
· Fat: 15-20g
· Carbohydrates: 50-60g
· Sugar: 40-50g
· Protein: 4-6g
(These are decadent treats, best enjoyed in moderation!)
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Conclusion
Mounds Brownies are more than just a dessert; they are an experience. They take the simple joy of a classic candy bar and elevate it into a rich, satisfying homemade treat. With a fudgy base, a luscious coconut heart, and a shiny chocolate top, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Easy to make but impressive to serve, they are the perfect way to satisfy any chocolate-coconut craving. Enjoy!