Mounds Bars
Mounds Bars are rich, chewy coconut confections coated in smooth chocolate, offering a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and chocolatey flavors. Perfect for coconut lovers and sweet treats, they make an irresistible homemade candy that's ideal for sharing at parties or indulging as a special snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix coconut, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, and melted margarine together.
- Spread the mixture in a sheet cake or cookie pan.
- Place in freezer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until firm.
- Remove from freezer and cut into bars.
- Melt chocolate chips and paraffin wax in a double boiler.
- Dip the coconut bars into the melted chocolate mixture using a toothpick.
- Place dipped bars on wax paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can also substitute the margarine with unsalted butter for a richer taste. If you prefer a healthier option, try using unsweetened shredded coconut and reducing the powdered sugar slightly. Make sure to line your pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
Serving Suggestions
These Mounds Bars are delightful on their own, but you can enhance your dessert table by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving alongside a plate of Ranch Cookies for a fun treat combination. They also make a great addition to dessert platters, especially during gatherings or celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mounds Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mounds Bars contains roughly 328 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?
Yes, you can use fresh coconut, but it will require more preparation. Make sure to finely grate the fresh coconut and adjust the moisture levels, as fresh coconut may contain more water, potentially affecting the texture of your bars.
How do I prevent chocolate from clumping when melting?
To prevent clumping, ensure that your double boiler is not too hot and that the chocolate chips are added gradually. Stir continuously and remove from heat once the chocolate is mostly melted, allowing residual heat to finish the melting process for a smooth consistency.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can make vegan Mounds Bars by using coconut oil instead of margarine, dairy-free chocolate chips, and a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative. This ensures that you maintain the creamy texture while adhering to a vegan diet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).