Rich, chewy, and delightfully simple, these Classic Homemade Mound Bars are a nostalgic treat that brings back sweet memories of lunchboxes, potlucks, and old-fashioned bake sales. Inspired by the iconic Mounds candy bar, this homemade version takes those beloved flavors and makes them even better with the satisfying combination of buttery graham cracker crust, a thick layer of sweet coconut, and a silky-smooth chocolate topping.
Whether you grew up enjoying coconut treats or you’re just now discovering the magic of chocolate and coconut together, this recipe is sure to win you over. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires no fancy equipment—just a baking dish and a few pantry staples. These bars are perfect for holiday cookie trays, birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply a cozy weekend baking session. Best of all, they store well and even freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy a square (or two) whenever the craving hits.
Why You’ll Love These Mound Bars
- Simple Ingredients: Just 6 basic pantry items needed.
- Quick & Easy Prep: Minimal prep and clean-up.
- Sweet, Rich Flavor: Balanced layers of chocolate, coconut, and graham.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for parties and holidays.
- No Candy Thermometer: Just melt, mix, bake, and chill.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different toppings or mix-ins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs – For a buttery, crunchy base. Use a food processor for a fine, even crumb.
- ¼ cup white sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps bind the crust.
- ¼ cup melted butter – Adds richness and holds the crust together.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – Acts as a glue for the coconut and provides chewy sweetness.
- 2 cups flaked coconut – The heart of the bar, adding chew and flavor. Sweetened coconut is traditional, but unsweetened works too.
- 1 (12 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips, melted – Creates a decadent chocolate topping. Use dark chocolate if preferred.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, white sugar, and melted butter.
- Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Coconut Layer
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the flaked coconut over the milk layer, pressing gently so it adheres.
- Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Add Chocolate Topping
- Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth, or use a double boiler.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled coconut layer and spread evenly.
- Chill and Serve
- Place the dish in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
- Lift the bars out using parchment, then cut into squares or rectangles.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Toasted Coconut: For deeper flavor, toast the coconut in a dry pan before layering.
- Nutty Twist: Add a layer of chopped almonds before the chocolate for an Almond Joy feel.
- Chocolate Swirl: Mix dark and milk chocolate chips for a layered chocolate effect.
- Holiday Flair: Sprinkle crushed peppermint or red/green sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Mini Bites: Make in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
Final Thoughts
These homemade Mound Bars are the ultimate dessert for coconut and chocolate lovers alike. With their rich layers, chewy texture, and indulgent flavor, they offer all the joy of a candy bar with the warmth and satisfaction of a homemade treat. Whether you’re making a batch to share or to keep all for yourself (we won’t judge), these bars are guaranteed to impress. Easy, customizable, and incredibly delicious, they deserve a spot in your dessert recipe rotation year-round.
Mound Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups flaked coconut
- 1 12 oz package semisweet chocolate chips, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into dish.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk over crust and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle flaked coconut on top and press lightly.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
- Melt chocolate chips and spread over cooled bars.
- Chill until chocolate sets. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Toast coconut for extra flavor.
- Add chopped almonds for an Almond Joy twist.
- Store in an airtight container up to 5 days or freeze for 1 month.
- Use dairy-free swaps for a vegan-friendly version.
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