Description

Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, chewy, and utterly delectable treat that combines the tropical allure of coconut with the luxurious taste of chocolate. Welcome to the world of the 3 Ingredient Mounds Bar! This delightful dessert is inspired by the classic confectionery known for its sweet, creamy coconut center enrobed in smooth dark chocolate. With roots tracing back to the early 20th century, Mounds Bars have long been a favorite for those who crave a sweet indulgence.

What makes this recipe special? It’s not just the wonderful combination of flavors; it’s also the simplicity of preparation. With only three ingredients, you can whip up these mouthwatering bars in no time, making them a perfect choice for a quick dessert, a last-minute treat for guests, or a sweet snack to enjoy during a cozy movie night. Plus, the joy of creating something so delicious with minimal effort is truly fulfilling.

Get ready to make your kitchen smell heavenly and to impress family and friends with your culinary skills (even if you only used three ingredients)!

Ingredients

• 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Preparation Method

Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. You’ll need a mixing bowl, a spatula, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler for melting the chocolate.

Begin by combining the shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk in your mixing bowl. The coconut should be fresh and moist, which will help bind the mixture together. Stir the two ingredients together until the coconut is evenly coated with the condensed milk. You want a thick, sticky mixture that holds together well. If you find it's too dry, add a splash more of the sweetened condensed milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the bars. Take a small handful of the coconut mixture and press it firmly into a rectangular or oval shape—about the size of a candy bar. The bars should be compact to ensure they hold their shape when dipped in chocolate. Place the formed bars onto the lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.

After shaping all of your bars, pop the baking sheet into the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will firm them up and make them easier to dip in chocolate. While the bars are chilling, you can focus on melting the chocolate.

For melting the chocolate chips, you can choose either the microwave or the double boiler method. If using the microwave, place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be cautious not to overheat, as chocolate can seize up. If you prefer the double boiler method, fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water, and add the chocolate chips. Stir continuously until melted.

Once your chocolate is melted and has a glossy finish, it’s time to dip the coconut bars. Retrieve the bars from the freezer, and one by one, dip each bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Use a fork to lift the bars out of the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before placing them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

After dipping all the bars, you may have leftover chocolate. Don’t let it go to waste! You can drizzle it over the bars for a decorative touch or use it to coat additional treats like nuts or pretzels.

Once all your bars are coated, place the baking sheet back in the freezer for another 15-20 minutes to let the chocolate set. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chocolate hardens nicely around the coconut filling.

When the chocolate is fully set, your 3 Ingredient Mounds Bars are ready to be enjoyed! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can keep them in the freezer for longer storage; just remember to let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before indulging.

Tips and Conclusion

For a fun twist on this classic recipe, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. The salt will enhance the sweetness and create a beautiful contrast in flavor. If you want to experiment further, you could also try using milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different taste experience. Additionally, if you’re looking for a variation that’s a bit more indulgent, consider adding a layer of almond or peanut butter between the coconut and the chocolate for a creamy surprise.



Creating your very own 3 Ingredient Mounds Bars is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about the joy of making something delicious with your own hands. The process is straightforward, and the result is a decadent treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, these bars are sure to impress.

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful recipe, why not explore more sweet treats? You might enjoy making homemade chocolate truffles, no-bake cheesecake, or even classic brownies. Each recipe offers its own unique experience and flavor profile, perfect for satisfying any sweet craving.

Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to try their hand at making these delightful bars. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!