Mounds Dessert
A rich, coconut and chocolate layered dessert with a crispy crust and creamy pudding topping, perfect for coconut lovers and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together butter, coconut, brown sugar, and flour until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Scatter the remaining crumb mixture onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, stirring the crumbs on the baking sheet every few minutes.
- Cook vanilla pudding with 3 cups of milk as directed on the package.
- Whip the topping mix as per instructions and fold it into the cooked pudding.
- Add chocolate chips and pecans to the pudding mixture and combine.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the prepared crust.
- Crumble the baked coconut mixture over the top of the pudding layer.
- Refrigerate overnight to set. This dessert freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened for a more authentic taste. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. You can also use a sugar-free vanilla pudding mix for a lighter version. Ensure your butter is softened to make mixing easier and achieve a crumbly texture. This dessert pairs beautifully with Strawberry Smooth(For Dieters).
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. This dessert can be garnished with additional coconut or chocolate shavings on top. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying. Avoid reheating, as the texture is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mounds Dessert contains roughly 1001 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make Mounds Dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's best when made the night before. This allows the layers to set properly and the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve, as it tastes best chilled.
Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Mounds Dessert gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that your pudding mix and toppings are also labeled gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!
What can I substitute for the chocolate chips?
If you want to switch up the chocolate flavor, you can use white chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for a different taste. You can also omit the chips entirely for a lighter dessert, or drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving for added flair.
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).