Peter Paul Mound Cake Recipe

With layers of moist chocolate cake, coconut filling, and a smooth chocolate frosting, this delectable treat will satisfy your sweet tooth while being reminiscent of the infamous candy bar.

The versatile recipe even allows you to bake it in sheet form or as a layered cake, whichever suits your preference.

How to Make Peter Paul Mound Cake

Ingredients List

To make a Peter Paul Mound Cake, prepare the following ingredients:

• 1 box of your favorite Chocolate Cake Mix (e.g., Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix)
• Ingredients specified in the cake mix box (usually vegetable oil, eggs, and water)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 bag (14 ounces) frozen coconut flakes
• 24 large marshmallows
• Chocolate icing (either homemade or store-bought)

Step-by-step Process

Step 1

Prepare the Cake Pans and Chocolate Cake Mix: First, lightly grease and flour the Cake Pans (two-layer Chocolate Cake Mix is recommended) according to the instructions on the box.

Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in the Chocolate Cake Mix instructions.

Mix the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chocolate Cake Mix with the required ingredients mentioned on the box (usually vegetable oil, eggs, and water).

Mix well until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 2

Pour batter into Prepared Cake Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two Prepared Cake Pans.

Gently tap the pans on the counter to remove any trapped air bubbles.

Bake the Chocolate Cake: Place the Cake Pans into the oven and bake according to the instructions provided on the Chocolate Cake Mix box.

Monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the Cake Pans from the oven and let them cool down to room temperature.

Step 3

Prepare the Coconut Filling: While the Baked Chocolate Cake is cooling, prepare the coconut filling.

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and frozen coconut.

Cook over low to medium heat until the mixture thickens a bit.

Stir in the marshmallows until they are completely melted.

Step 4

Assemble the Cake: Gently remove the cooled Baked Chocolate Cake layers from the Cake Pans.

Place one layer on a serving plate.

Spread the prepared coconut filling evenly on top of the first layer, leaving a small border around the edge.

Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the filling.

Step 5

Ice the Cake: Once the layers are assembled, coat the top layer and sides of the cake with the chocolate icing.

If desired, you can also add some decorative swirls or piping for a more impressive presentation.

Now, your Decadent Peter Paul Mound Cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Slice and serve, and remember to store any remaining cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to retain freshness.

Side Dishes for Peter Paul Mound Cake

A delicious Peter Paul Mound Cake typically features a moist chocolate cake with a coconut and marshmallow filling topped with chocolate icing.

But what to serve alongside this indulgent treat?

Here are some excellent side dishes to complement your Peter Paul Mound Cake.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing with any chocolate dessert.

Its subtle flavor beautifully balances the rich chocolate and sweet coconut of the cake.

Simply serve a scoop next to a slice of cake and enjoy them together for a refreshing texture contrast.

Fresh Fruit Salad

A colorful, fresh fruit salad brings brightness to your dessert plate.

Choose a variety of fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and pineapple to offer contrasting flavors and textures.

The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruits will cut through the richness of the cake, refreshing your palate between bites.

Ingredients Substitutes

You might not always have the exact ingredients at hand, or you may want to try alternative options for health or dietary reasons.

Here are some possible substitutes you can consider using in place of the designated ingredients:

Frozen Coconut

If you don’t have a package of coconut, you can use frozen coconut as a substitute.

Just thaw the frozen coconut and drain any excess liquid before using.

This maintains the texture and flavor of the Peter Paul Mound Cake.

Granulated Sugar substitutes 

If you don’t have granulated sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of powdered sugar or brown sugar.

Keep in mind that using brown sugar may slightly change the color and flavor of the cake, but it will still be delicious.

How to Store Peter Paul Mound Cake

Storing your Peter Paul Mound Cake properly can help keep it fresh and delicious for a longer period of time.

Here, we’ll discuss a few different methods for storing the cake, whether it’s in cake layers, a two-layer cake, cake halves, or a sheet cake.

Additionally, we will address the importance of not storing a warm cake.

Cooling the Cake

Before storing your cake, it is essential to let it cool completely.

A warm cake can produce condensation inside its container, which will lead to sogginess and may negatively impact its texture.

Allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least an hour.

Storing Cake Layers

If you have made individual cake layers and plan on assembling the Peter Paul Mound Cake later, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap.

You can store the wrapped layers in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard for 1-2 days.

Storing a Two-Layer Cake or Cake Halves

When storing a two-layer cake or cake halves, place the cake on a plate and wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

This will keep it fresh and prevent any contaminants from reaching the cake.

Store the cake in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days.

Storing a Sheet Cake

To store a sheet cake, place it inside an airtight container with a lid.

If the container is large enough, you can place the entire cake inside, including any decorations.

Alternatively, you can store the sheet cake by covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Store the sheet cake at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Remember, storing your Peter Paul Mound Cake with care will ensure it remains moist and delicious for your enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Using the Right Cake Mix

When making a Peter Paul Mound Cake, it is essential to use a good quality dark chocolate cake mix.

Avoid using a soft mound cake mix or ordinary chocolate cake mix, as they might not produce the desired rich flavor and texture.

Over- or Undercooking the Cake

Keep an eye on your baking time to ensure your cake is moist and melts in your mouth.

Overcooking can lead to a dry cake, while undercooking can cause an unappealing gooey center.

Follow the recipe directions for the exact baking time.

Inadequate Mixing of the Coconut Filling

It is crucial to blend the ingredients for the coconut filling properly.

The coconut filling gives the cake its distinctive taste, so be sure to mix everything until the sugar, milk, and marshmallows are completely melted and well combined.