Description

Enjoy homemade 3-Ingredient Mounds Bars! With chewy coconut, sweet condensed milk, and rich chocolate, these bars are a perfect, quick treat for any coconut lover.

Ingredients

For the 3-Ingredient Mounds Bars

Sweetened Shredded Coconut: 2 cups – Provides the signature coconut flavor and texture, creating a chewy center.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1/2 cup – Acts as a binder for the coconut, adding sweetness and moisture to form a firm, chewy base.
Chocolate Chips or Chocolate Melting Wafers: 1 1/2 cups – Melted and used to coat each bar, adding a rich, chocolatey shell.

Ingredient Notes

Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Using sweetened shredded coconut adds the right amount of sweetness and moisture, creating the ideal texture for the filling. You can use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet bar, but the consistency may be slightly different.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is essential for binding the coconut and adding sweetness. Avoid using evaporated milk, as it lacks the necessary thickness and sweetness.
Chocolate Chips or Chocolate Wafers: Dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate can be used depending on your preference. Chocolate wafers are often easier to melt smoothly, but chocolate chips work just as well.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

These easy steps guide you through making 3-Ingredient Mounds Bars from start to finish.

Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Filling

Combine Coconut and Sweetened Condensed Milk: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded coconut and pour in the sweetened condensed milk.
Mix Until Fully Combined: Stir the mixture until the coconut is thoroughly coated with the sweetened condensed milk. The consistency should be sticky and hold together when pressed.

Step 2: Shape and Chill the Coconut Mixture

Line the Baking Pan: Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Spread and Press the Mixture: Transfer the coconut mixture to the prepared pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly into an even layer across the pan.
Chill the Mixture: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to cut into bars.

Step 3: Cut the Coconut Mixture into Bars

Remove and Slice: Once the coconut mixture is thoroughly chilled, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
Cut into Bars: Using a sharp knife, cut the coconut mixture into 12 rectangular bars (or smaller squares, if preferred).

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

Prepare the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips or melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl.
Melt in the Microwave or Double Boiler: Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt the chocolate gently over simmering water, stirring frequently.
Add a Bit of Coconut Oil (Optional): If the chocolate seems too thick, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother, glossy finish.

Step 5: Dip and Coat the Bars in Chocolate

Prepare a Surface for Setting: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for placing the coated bars to set.
Dip Each Bar in Chocolate: Using a fork, lower each bar into the melted chocolate, coating it fully. Tap off any excess chocolate, then place each bar onto the lined baking sheet.
Let the Chocolate Set: Once all bars are coated, let them sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets, or refrigerate them for faster setting.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Trim Excess Chocolate: If needed, trim any excess chocolate around the edges of the bars for a clean look.
Serve or Store: Enjoy the bars immediately, or transfer them to an airtight container for storage. These bars can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated, depending on your preference.

Notes

Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient Mounds Bars

Use Room-Temperature Condensed Milk: Using room-temperature condensed milk helps the coconut mix more evenly and prevents the mixture from becoming too stiff.
Press the Mixture Firmly: When spreading the coconut mixture in the pan, press it down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. This step ensures the bars hold together when cut and dipped.
Chill the Mixture Thoroughly: Chilling for at least 1 hour (or even longer) ensures the coconut mixture is firm enough for easy cutting and dipping.
Use a High-Quality Chocolate: Good-quality chocolate has a smooth, rich flavor and melts more evenly, giving the bars a professional finish.
Work Quickly with Chocolate: Melt the chocolate right before dipping, and work quickly to avoid having to reheat, which can affect its texture. Using a fork to dip each bar and letting excess chocolate drip off can help create a smooth finish.