Mounds Poke Cake is a rich chocolate cake soaked with sweet coconut filling and topped with fluffy whipped topping and chocolate drizzle. Inspired by the classic chocolate-and-coconut candy bar, this dessert is moist, decadent, and incredibly easy to make.
Perfect for potlucks, parties, or when you need a simple crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
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Super moist chocolate base
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Sweet, creamy coconut filling
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Light whipped topping
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Easy shortcut with cake mix
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Great make-ahead dessert
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Chill Time: 2–3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings
Serves 12–15 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
For the Coconut Filling:
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 cup cream of coconut
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1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
For the Topping:
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1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
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1/2 cup chocolate syrup or melted chocolate
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Extra shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
How to Make Mounds Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Prepare and bake the chocolate cake in a 9×13-inch pan according to package instructions.
Allow cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the warm cake.
Make sure holes go deep but not all the way through.
Step 3: Add Coconut Filling
In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk and cream of coconut.
Pour evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
Sprinkle shredded coconut evenly over the top.
Let cool completely.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to blend.
Step 5: Add Topping
Spread whipped topping evenly over chilled cake.
Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle extra coconut if desired.
Slice and serve cold.
Expert Tips
Use Warm Cake
The filling absorbs best when the cake is still slightly warm.
Chill Thoroughly
Helps set the layers and makes slicing easier.
Toast the Coconut
For extra flavor, lightly toast coconut before sprinkling.
For Richer Flavor
Use homemade chocolate ganache instead of syrup.
Flavor Variations
Almond Joy Style
Add sliced almonds on top.
Dark Chocolate Version
Use dark chocolate cake mix and dark chocolate drizzle.
Extra Coconut
Stir coconut directly into the filling mixture.
Texture Breakdown
Cake: Soft and ultra-moist
Middle: Sweet, creamy coconut soak
Top: Light and fluffy with chocolate finish
Final Thoughts
Mounds Poke Cake delivers that classic chocolate-and-coconut combination in a simple, crowd-friendly dessert. Moist, creamy, and easy to prepare, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.
Chill well and enjoy every sweet, coconut-filled bite.