Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of dark chocolate and coconut with these irresistible mound bar cookies. Perfectly balanced between chewy and crispy, they are a delightful treat for any occasion.
When gathering ingredients for this recipe, you might need to pay extra attention to the mini mounds bars and shortening. These items might not be standard pantry staples, so make sure to pick them up at the supermarket for the best results.
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
All-purpose flour: The base of your cookies, providing structure.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
Cornstarch: Adds a bit of tenderness to the cookies.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture.
Light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors.
Mini mounds bars: The star ingredient, adding coconut and chocolate flavor.
Dark chocolate chips: Used for the drizzle, adding a rich chocolate finish.
Shortening: Helps achieve a smooth, shiny chocolate drizzle.
One reader, Alexio Hickey says:
These dark chocolate mounds bar cookies are a delight! The rich chocolate flavor combined with the chewy texture is simply irresistible. Perfectly sweet and satisfying, they were a hit at my family gathering. Highly recommend for any chocolate lover!
Essential Techniques for Making Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
How to whisk: Use a whisk to combine ingredients until smooth and well-mixed. How to melt butter: Heat butter in a microwave or on a stovetop until it becomes liquid. How to fold in: Gently incorporate ingredients into a mixture using a spatula. How to chill dough: Place dough in the refrigerator to cool and firm up. How to preheat oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature and allow it to reach that temperature before baking. How to roll dough into balls: Shape the dough into round balls using your hands. How to melt chocolate chips and shortening: Heat chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl until melted, stirring occasionally.
How To Make Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
Sink your teeth into these bittersweet chocolate mounds bar cookies, made extra chewy with hints of coconut, and topped with a tasty chocolate drizzle.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Cookies:
- 2¼cupsall-purpose flour,spooned and leveled
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1½tspcornstarch
- ½tspsalt
- ¾cupunsalted butter,(1½ sticks), melted, slightly cooled
- ¾cuplight brown sugar,packed
- ½cupgranulated sugar
- 1large egg,plus 1 egg yolk
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 10mini Mounds Bars,(about 1½ cups), chopped
For Drizzle:
- ⅓cupdark chocolate chips,or pure chocolate, or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼tspshortening,for thinning
Instructions
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Whisk the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
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In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until no brown sugar lumps remain. Whisk in the egg, then the egg yolk and the vanilla extract.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix together until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
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Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 3 hours or up to 2 to 3 days.
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Take the dough out of the refrigerator and allow it to slightly soften at room temperature for 10 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
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Roll the dough into balls to about 3 tablespoons of dough each. Roll the cookie dough balls to be taller rather than wide.
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Place 8 balls of dough onto each cookie sheet. Press a few more chocolate chips on top of the dough balls, if desired.
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Bake the cookies for 12 to 13 minutes. Allow to cool on the cookie sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Melt the dark chocolate chips and shortening in a small bowl in the microwave. Drizzle on warm or cooled cookies.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 278.20kcal
- Fat: 13.94g
- Saturated Fat: 8.98g
- Trans Fat: 0.36g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.92g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.54g
- Carbohydrates: 35.35g
- Fiber: 1.33g
- Sugar: 19.36g
- Protein: 3.15g
- Cholesterol: 34.85mg
- Sodium: 142.29mg
- Calcium: 17.99mg
- Potassium: 100.86mg
- Iron: 1.63mg
- Vitamin A: 77.86µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies Recipe
To ensure your cookies have a perfect texture, make sure to chill the dough for at least 3 hours. This step solidifies the butter and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the dry ingredients the night before to save time on baking day.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine your wet and dry ingredients, saving you from manual mixing.
Chill dough efficiently: Flatten the cookie dough before chilling; it will chill faster and be easier to work with.
Microwave butter: Soften the butter in the microwave for a few seconds instead of waiting for it to reach room temperature.
Batch baking: Bake multiple cookie sheets at once to cut down on oven time.
Substitute Ingredients For Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cookies denser.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder to replace baking soda, but note that it may slightly alter the texture.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can thicken just like cornstarch and is a great gluten-free alternative.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and adds a slightly different mineral taste.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and a caramel-like flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener, but use ¾ cup of honey for every cup of sugar and reduce other liquids in the recipe.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg, making it vegan-friendly.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor, though use half the amount as it is stronger.
mini mounds bars - Substitute with dark chocolate chips and shredded coconut: Combine dark chocolate chips and shredded coconut to mimic the flavor and texture of Mounds bars.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are slightly sweeter but can be used in the same quantity.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can replace shortening in the same amount, adding a richer flavor to the drizzle.
How to Beautifully Present Homemade Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
Serve smaller portion sizes: Form the cookie dough into elegant, bite-sized portions to create a refined presentation. This allows for a more delicate and sophisticated tasting experience.
Use decoration: Garnish each cookie with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a few edible gold flakes to add a touch of luxury and visual appeal.
Plate with precision: Arrange the cookies on a pristine white plate in a circular pattern, ensuring each piece is evenly spaced. This creates a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Add a complementary element: Serve the cookies with a small quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side to enhance the flavor profile and provide a contrast in texture.
Drizzle artfully: Use a fine-tipped squeeze bottle to drizzle the melted dark chocolate in an intricate, lace-like pattern over the cookies. This adds an artistic touch and highlights the rich chocolate flavor.
Incorporate fresh elements: Add a few fresh mint leaves or a couple of raspberries to the plate for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dark chocolate.
Use a textured base: Place the cookies on a textured slate or marble slab to create a contrast between the smooth cookies and the rough surface, adding an element of sophistication to the presentation.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a small bowl of mini mounds bars pieces on the side of the plate to showcase the key ingredient and allow diners to appreciate the components of the cookies.
Create height: Stack a couple of cookies slightly off-center to add dimension and height to the presentation, making the dish more visually interesting.
Finish with a flourish: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the cookies just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a final touch of elegance.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
Whisk: To mix the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt together, as well as to blend the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
Large bowl: For combining the dry ingredients.
Medium bowl: For mixing the wet ingredients.
Refrigerator: To chill the cookie dough for 3 hours or up to 2 to 3 days.
Oven: Preheat to 325 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the cookies.
Parchment paper: To line the baking sheets, preventing the cookies from sticking.
Silicone baking mats: An alternative to parchment paper for lining the baking sheets.
Baking sheets: To place the cookie dough balls on for baking.
Microwave: To melt the dark chocolate chips and shortening for the drizzle.
Wire rack: To cool the cookies completely after baking.
Small bowl: For melting the dark chocolate chips and shortening.
Measuring cups: To measure out the flour, sugars, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the baking soda, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: To fold in the chocolate chips and to help mix the dough.
Cookie scoop: To portion out the cookie dough into balls.
Knife: To cut the mini mounds bars if needed.
Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate chips and shortening in the microwave.
Storing and Freezing Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for dark chocolate mounds bar cookies:
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- If freezing cookie dough, shape the dough into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and let thaw for 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe.
- To maintain optimal texture and flavor, store the cookies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors.
- If the cookies become slightly stale, you can refresh them by placing them in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until crisp.
How To Reheat Leftover Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover dark chocolate mounds bar cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and the chocolate is melted. This method will restore the cookies' crisp exterior while keeping the interior soft and gooey.
For a quicker option, place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as the cookies can become too soft or rubbery. Microwaving works best for small batches of cookies.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the cookies in just a few minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and the chocolate is melted. This method will give the cookies a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a soft center.
For a more indulgent treat, crumble the leftover cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm, gooey cookies and the cool, creamy ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience. You can also add a drizzle of hot fudge sauce or caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
If you prefer a softer, cake-like texture, wrap the cookies in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 10-15 seconds. The moisture from the paper towel will help soften the cookies without making them too soggy. This method works best for cookies that have become slightly stale.
Interesting Fact About Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies
A fun fact about this dark chocolate mounds bar cookies recipe is that the addition of cornstarch helps to create a softer and thicker cookie. Cornstarch is often used in baking to give cookies a tender texture and prevent them from spreading too much during baking.
Is Making Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
This dark chocolate mounds bar cookies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main expenses come from unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and mini mounds bars. However, these ingredients are often pantry staples or can be used in multiple recipes, enhancing their value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.
Are Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This dark chocolate mounds bar cookie recipe is a delightful treat, but it's not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of butter, sugar, and processed chocolate, which are high in saturated fat and added sugars. These ingredients can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease if consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe lacks nutritious ingredients like whole grains, fruits, or vegetables, which could provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used in the recipe, or replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
- Incorporate some oats or nuts into the cookie dough for added texture and nutrition
- Choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content (70% or more) for the mounds bars and drizzle, as it contains more antioxidants and less sugar compared to milk chocolate
- Serve the cookies with fresh fruit to add vitamins and fiber to the dessert
Editor's Opinion on the Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies Recipe
This recipe for dark chocolate mounds bar cookies is a delightful fusion of classic cookie dough and rich, coconut-filled mounds bars. The use of cornstarch ensures a tender, chewy texture, while the combination of brown and granulated sugars adds depth of flavor. Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency. The dark chocolate drizzle adds an elegant finish, enhancing the overall decadence. However, consider incorporating chopped mounds bars directly into the dough for a more pronounced coconut presence. This recipe is a must-try for chocolate and coconut lovers seeking a sophisticated twist on traditional cookies.
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Why trust this Dark Chocolate Mounds Bar Cookies Recipe:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate and mini mounds bars to create a decadent treat. The use of cornstarch ensures a soft and chewy texture, while the brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Chilling the dough enhances the flavors and prevents spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies. The final touch of a dark chocolate drizzle elevates these cookies to gourmet status. Trust this recipe for its balance of ingredients and detailed instructions, ensuring a delightful baking experience and delicious results.
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