There’s something absolutely magical about biting into a homemade Mounds Coconut Candy: a dreamy fusion of chewy, coconut-packed centers enrobed in silky dark chocolate. Making these treats is a true delight—you’ll feel like a chocolatier as you craft each piece, and the result is every bit as satisfying as your favorite store-bought candy bar, but with fresher, richer flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a late-night craving, this recipe is sure to win over anyone lucky enough to get a taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Mounds Coconut Candy serves a delicious purpose, building flavor and luscious texture. With just a handful of essentials, you’re well on your way to coconut-chocolate heaven—nothing complicated, but each plays a starring role in the final bite.
- Shredded sweetened coconut (2 cups): This is the base of your candy, giving that essential chewy texture and unmistakable coconut flavor.
- Sweetened condensed coconut milk (2/3 cup): Acts as the glue that brings the coconut together, adding sweetness and creamy structure; regular condensed milk works perfectly if you’re not aiming for vegan.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash transforms the filling, deepening its flavor and rounding out the sweetness.
- Dark chocolate (12 oz, chopped or chips): The perfect partner to coconut, providing a rich, bittersweet shell—pick your favorite quality chocolate for best results.
- Coconut oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Stirring this into your melted chocolate helps create a glossy, smooth finish that snaps enticingly when you bite in.
How to Make Mounds Coconut Candy
Step 1: Mix the Coconut Filling
In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed coconut milk, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the coconut is moistened and the ingredients come together to form a sticky, cohesive filling. You want every little strand of coconut to glisten and clump together—if the mixture holds its shape when pressed, you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Candy Centers
Scoop out generous tablespoon-sized portions of the coconut mixture. With your hands (don’t be shy!), shape each portion into a small rectangle or oval—classic Mounds Coconut Candy style. Place the shaped pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once they’re all formed, slide the tray into the freezer for about 30 minutes. This firms up the centers, making them much easier to dip in chocolate later.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the coconut centers are chilling, place the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between sessions, until the chocolate is silky smooth and completely melted. The coconut oil gives your chocolate an irresistible sheen, but it’s not essential if you’re in a rush.
Step 4: Dip and Coat
Remove the chilled coconut centers from the freezer. Using a fork, dip each coconut piece into the melted chocolate, turning gently to coat all sides. Lift each candy out, letting excess chocolate drip off, then set them back on the lined baking sheet. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—imperfections add homemade charm!
Step 5: Chill to Set
Pop the tray of dipped candies into the refrigerator for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and crisp to the touch. Once firm, your Mounds Coconut Candy is ready for tasting or gifting!
How to Serve Mounds Coconut Candy
Garnishes
For a special touch, press a whole almond onto each coconut mound before dipping them in chocolate—this little twist legitimately turns them into a homemade Almond Joy! You could also sprinkle toasted coconut on top just before the chocolate sets or finish with a whisper of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Mounds Coconut Candy shines as an after-dinner treat, but why not get creative? Serve alongside juicy seasonal berries or a scoop of vanilla coconut ice cream for a tropical dessert plate. These candies are also fantastic with a mug of strong coffee or herbal tea, complementing each sip with creamy, chocolatey goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Channel your inner chocolatier and package your Mounds Coconut Candy in cute parchment wrappers or a decorative tin for gifting. Arrange them in petite cupcake liners for an impressive homemade candy platter, or pile into a pretty jar tied with ribbon. Sharing is believing—watch faces light up as you unveil your handiwork!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Homemade candies tend to disappear fast, but if you have leftovers, simply transfer your Mounds Coconut Candy to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh, chewy, and delicious for up to two weeks—perfect for anytime snacking or little sweet tooth moments.
Freezing
Want to make a batch in advance? These candies freeze beautifully. Just wrap them well or stack with layers of parchment in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready for a treat, let them thaw in the fridge or enjoy straight from the freezer for an extra-cool delight.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake candy, reheating isn’t needed. If you like your chocolate extra soft, you can rest a piece at room temperature for a few minutes before eating, but honestly, they’re equally dreamy cold and firm from the fridge!
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
You can, but you’ll want to add a bit more sweetener (like a touch of maple syrup or honey) to balance the flavors and help the filling hold together, since sweetened coconut is moister and stickier.
How do I make Mounds Coconut Candy vegan?
Just use sweetened condensed coconut milk instead of regular condensed milk, and opt for dairy-free dark chocolate. These two swaps make the recipe completely plant-based with no loss of creamy flavor!
Can I melt the chocolate on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Use a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water), stirring until melted and glossy—no microwave needed.
Will the candies hold their shape at room temperature?
They’ll do fine for a few hours at room temp, but for best texture and to avoid melty messes, store Mounds Coconut Candy in the refrigerator, especially if your kitchen is warm.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Definitely! Try adding orange zest, a pinch of cinnamon, or even dried cherries to the coconut mixture for a fun twist. The recipe is reliable enough for a little experimentation.
Final Thoughts
If you love the classic pairing of coconut and chocolate, you’ll adore making (and sharing) homemade Mounds Coconut Candy. There’s nothing quite like the pride of serving up a beautifully simple treat that everyone raves about. Give it a whirl—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Print
Mounds Coconut Candy Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 20 candies 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in the sweet, tropical flavors of Mounds Coconut Candy. These vegan treats feature a chewy coconut center dipped in rich dark chocolate for a delightful confection that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Center:
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 2/3 cup sweetened condensed coconut milk (or regular condensed milk if not vegan)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Coating:
- 12 oz dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Centers: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed coconut milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until sticky and well mixed.
- Shape the Candy: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and form into small rectangles or ovals. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Coat the Coconut Pieces: Dip each chilled coconut piece into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat. Let excess chocolate drip off and place back on the sheet.
- Chill and Serve: Chill in the refrigerator until chocolate is set, about 15–20 minutes. Enjoy your Mounds Coconut Candy!
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- You can top each piece with an almond before dipping to create a homemade almond joy version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
