3-Ingredient Easy Homemade Mounds Bars are a testament to the beauty of simplicity—a candy-making miracle that transforms just three humble ingredients into a decadent, copycat version of the beloved coconut-chocolate candy bar. This recipe is a masterclass in minimalist indulgence, where sweetened shredded coconut is bound together with rich, creamy sweetened condensed milk to form a lusciously sticky, chewy filling that perfectly mimics the dense, moist texture of the original. The magic happens in the shaping: small, rustic mounds formed by hand and briefly chilled to firm up before being enrobed in a generous bath of melted chocolate. Whether you choose milk chocolate for classic sweetness or dark chocolate for a sophisticated, bitter counterpoint, the result is a candy that is astoundingly authentic, profoundly satisfying, and dangerously easy to make.
The brilliance of this recipe lies in its foolproof, no-bake method and the sheer joy of creating a professional-quality confection at home with almost no effort. It requires no candy thermometers, no tempering, and no complicated steps—just stirring, shaping, dipping, and chilling. The optional pinch of salt is a masterstroke, elevating the sweetness and deepening the chocolate flavor with a tiny, effortless addition. These homemade Mounds bars are the perfect solution for a quick candy craving, a fun activity to do with kids, or a thoughtful, homemade gift packaged in a pretty box. They are a delicious reminder that the most extraordinary treats often come from the simplest places, and that you are only three ingredients away from pure, coconut-chocolate bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Only 3 Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have or can easily find.
- Incredibly Easy & Foolproof: No baking, no candy thermometers, no complicated techniques.
- Authentic Mounds Bar Flavor: Perfectly captures the chewy, sweet coconut center and rich chocolate coating of the classic candy.
- Customizable Chocolate Choice: Use milk chocolate for classic sweetness or dark chocolate for a more sophisticated, less sweet version.
- Perfect for Gifting & Sharing: Homemade candies make thoughtful, delicious gifts for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Coconut Filling:
2 cups (about 180g) sweetened shredded coconut
1 (14 oz / 400g) can sweetened condensed milk
Pinch of salt (optional, for flavor balance)
For the Coating:
12 oz (340g) chocolate chips (milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a mix)
Optional: flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Add a pinch of salt if desired. Stir with a spatula until the mixture is fully combined, very sticky, and holds together when pressed.
Step 2: Shape the Mounds
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the coconut mixture and, using your hands, shape it into a small oval or mound, similar to the shape of a classic Mounds bar. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should get about 12-16 pieces, depending on size.
Step 3: Chill to Firm
Place the baking sheet with the shaped coconut mounds in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, or until they are slightly firm and easier to handle.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
While the mounds chill, melt the chocolate chips. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth. Alternatively, melt them gently using a double boiler on the stovetop.
Step 5: Coat the Mounds
Using a fork or a dipping tool, carefully dip one chilled coconut mound into the melted chocolate, turning to coat it completely. Lift it out and gently tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to allow excess chocolate to drip off. Place the coated mound back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top while the chocolate is still soft. Repeat with all mounds.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is completely firm and set.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Tips:
- Chill Before Dipping: This step is crucial. Firm mounds are much easier to dip and hold their shape better.
- Use a Fork for Dipping: A fork allows excess chocolate to drip off easily and gives a nice textured bottom.
- Work Quickly with Chocolate: If the chocolate begins to thicken as it cools, reheat it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Customize the Size: Make them smaller for bite-sized treats or larger for a more substantial candy.
- Add Mix-Ins: For variety, stir a few chopped almonds or a teaspoon of almond extract into the coconut mixture.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They are deliciously firm and cool straight from the fridge.
- Room Temperature: They can be stored at cool room temperature for 2-3 days, but the chocolate may soften.
- Freezing: These freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Place in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Thaw in the refrigerator.
- Gifting: Package in a decorative box or cellophane bag for a beautiful homemade gift.
3-Ingredient Easy Homemade Mounds Bars are a celebration of simplicity and pure flavor. They prove that with just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of effort, you can create a candy that rivals any store-bought treat, bringing a little bit of homemade magic to every single bite.
