"I have made this many times (as mini and regular cupcakes and layer cake), and it always turns out beautifully. People will accuse you of buying it at a bakery it is THAT good! My mother, who is one of the pickiest cooks, raved all afternoon about my delicious cake!

The layers bake level so decorating is a breeze. I put the pecans in the frosting and press toasted coconut to the outside of the frosted cake. When making cupcakes, I omit pecans from the frosting, add toasted coconut, and top with a whole toasted pecan.

Be sure to sift your dry ingredients and gently fold in the egg whites. I also find it turns out better if the pecans for the batter are VERY finely chopped.