Are you craving that rich, decadent taste of a classic Mounds candy bar? Forget the store-bought version! This homemade Mounds recipe is surprisingly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create these delightful treats from scratch, and the taste? Oh, the taste is undeniably superior. Get ready for a quick and satisfying homemade cooking project perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing your friends and family. This recipe offers a delicious and easy way to make healthy-ish adjustments to a beloved classic candy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pecans or almonds) for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the coconut is evenly moistened. If adding nuts, incorporate them at this stage.
Step 2: Shape the Candy Bars
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the finished bars. Press the coconut mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish. You want a compact, even layer.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a double boiler over low heat. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the coconut mixture, spreading it to the edges. Use a spatula to ensure a smooth, even top layer.
Refrigerate the baking dish for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once the candy bars are firm, lift them out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into desired squares or bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Mounds Bars:
- Use good quality chocolate: The quality of your chocolate significantly impacts the taste of your candy bars. Opt for a high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best results.
- Don't overmix the coconut: Overmixing can make the coconut mixture too wet and the bars less firm.
- Press firmly: Ensure you press the coconut mixture firmly into the baking dish for a compact and even layer.
- Work quickly with melted chocolate: Melted chocolate cools quickly, so work efficiently when pouring it over the coconut mixture.
Variations:
- Dark Chocolate Mounds: Substitute dark chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate.
- Milk Chocolate Mounds: Use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a milder chocolate flavor.
- Spiced Mounds: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the coconut mixture for a warm, spiced twist.
- Toasted Coconut Mounds: Toast the coconut in a dry pan over medium heat before adding it to the mixture for a deeper flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving might contain:
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: 12-15g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
These homemade Mounds bars are a perfect blend of easy preparation, delicious flavor, and a satisfying sweet treat. Perfect for a quick dessert, a special occasion, or simply a moment of self-indulgence. Enjoy!