Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake

🍰 Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake 🍰

📜 History:
Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert with a rich history. It’s believed to have originated in the southern United States, where coconut and pecans are abundant. This cake has become a beloved classic, often associated with Southern hospitality and family gatherings. It’s a symbol of warmth and sweetness in many homes.

🧁 Components:
The key components of Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake are:

• Cake Layers: A moist and tender cake with a sweet coconut flavor.
• Coconut Pecan Frosting: A luscious frosting made with shredded coconut, chopped pecans, butter, sugar, and evaporated milk.
• Optional Garnish: You can add extra pecan halves or coconut flakes for decoration.

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake:

For the Cake Layers:

1. Ingredients:

   • 2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 teaspoon baking powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
   • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
   • 3 large eggs
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1 cup buttermilk
   • 1/2 cup shredded coconut

2. Instructions:
   a. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   b. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   c. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   d. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Fold in the shredded coconut.
   e. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on wire racks.

For the Coconut Pecan Frosting:

1. Ingredients:

   • 1 cup evaporated milk
   • 1 cup granulated sugar
   • 3 large egg yolks
   • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1 1/3 cups shredded coconut
   • 1 cup chopped pecans

2. Instructions:
   a. In a saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 12-15 minutes.
   b. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the frosting cool to room temperature.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous amount of the coconut pecan frosting over the top.
3. Gently place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
4. You can decorate the cake with extra pecan halves and coconut flakes if desired.

⏲️ Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake may vary, but on average, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, including prep time and baking. Enjoy this delicious cake as a sweet treat for special occasions or simply to satisfy your coconut and pecan cravings! 🥥🌰🍰

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450-500 calories
• Total Fat: 25-30 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10-12 grams
• Cholesterol: 50-70 milligrams
• Sodium: 200-250 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 35-40 grams
• Protein: 5-6 grams

Health Information:

1. Calorie Content: Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake is a delicious but calorie-dense dessert. A serving can provide a significant portion of your daily calorie intake, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

2. Saturated Fat: The cake contains a notable amount of saturated fat, mainly from butter and coconut. High intake of saturated fat can contribute to heart health issues, so it’s wise to consume such treats sparingly.

3. Sugar: This cake is sweetened with sugar, and a serving contains a substantial amount of added sugars. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and other health concerns, including dental problems.

4. Protein and Fiber: While there is some protein and fiber from ingredients like eggs and coconut, this cake isn’t a significant source of these nutrients.

5. Portion Control: To enjoy this dessert while being mindful of your health, consider smaller portions. Pair it with a balanced meal or share it with friends and family.

6. Balanced Diet: As with any indulgent treat, it’s important to balance your overall diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to ensure you get a wide range of nutrients.

Remember that nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, so these numbers are approximate. Enjoy Amy’s Coconut Pecan Cake as an occasional treat and complement it with a healthy and balanced diet for overall well-being. 🍰🥥🌰