Instructions
Bake the Cake
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure easy release.
- Mix the batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix with the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the batter becomes smooth and well blended. The mixture should look thick and glossy.
- Divide and bake. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops if needed so the layers bake uniformly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops spring back lightly when touched.
- Cool the cakes. Let the layers cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Fully cooled layers are essential for keeping the frosting stable during assembly.
Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting
- Cook the base. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Keep the mixture moving with constant stirring to prevent scorching.
- Thicken the frosting. Continue cooking for about 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a warm golden-brown color. It should coat the back of a spoon and feel noticeably thicker as you stir.
- Add coconut and pecans. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Allow the frosting to cool slightly so it thickens enough to spread easily without running.
Assemble the Cake
- Frost between layers. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the coconut-pecan frosting across the top, letting it reach the edges.
- Top and frost. Add the second layer and spread more frosting over the top and sides of the cake. The frosting’s texture makes it easy to achieve a rustic, inviting finish.
- Serve. Slice the cake once the frosting has set slightly. Each slice will showcase the soft white crumb and the rich golden frosting. Enjoy the cake at room temperature for ideal flavor and texture.
Serving Notes
This cake is rich enough to serve on its own, but pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or tea. It keeps well covered at room temperature or refrigerated, and the flavors deepen even more the next day as the frosting settles into the layers.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 | Calories: 520 kcal per slice
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