Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)

Instructions

Making the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg Yolks: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and coconut extract, if using.
4. **Combine Dry