Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
For the Coconut Pecan Frosting:
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 egg yolks, beaten
Instructions
A Classic Dessert, Elevated
Prep the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Make the Cake Batter: Cream together butter and sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla. Combine dry ingredients and add alternately with buttermilk to wet ingredients.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and egg. Mix well.
Assemble the Cake: Pour half the cake batter into prepared pans. Top with cheesecake layer, then remaining cake batter. Swirl with a knife.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans, then on a wire rack.
Make the Frosting: In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
Frost the Cake: Once cool, frost the cake with the coconut pecan frosting.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5-15 minutes
Yields: 12-16 servings