When I need an impressive dessert for a special occasion, this is the recipe I depend on. My guests are glad I do!

 

  • Total Time
    Prep: 45 min. Bake: 15 min. + cooling
  • Makes

    16 servings

    Ingredients

    • 4 large egg whites
    • 3/4 cup butter, softened
    • 1-1/2 cups sugar, divided
    • 1 teaspoon almond extract
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2-3/4 cups cake flour
    • 4 teaspoons baking powder
    • 3/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • FROSTING:
    • 5 large egg whites
    • 1-2/3 cups sugar
    • 1 tablespoon water
    • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2-1/2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes
    • Colored sprinkles, optional

    Directions

    • Place egg whites in a large bowl; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Line bottoms of three greased 9-in. round baking pans with parchment paper; grease paper. Preheat oven to 350°.
    • Cream butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy; beat in extracts. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk.
    • With clean beaters, beat egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high after each addition until sugar is dissolved. Continue beating until stiff glossy peaks form. Fold into batter.
    • Transfer to prepared pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 13-17 minutes. Cool in pans 10 minutes before removing to wire racks; remove paper. Cool completely.
    • For frosting, in a large heatproof bowl, whisk egg whites, sugar, water and cream of tartar until blended. Place over simmering water in a large saucepan over medium heat; whisking constantly, heat mixture until a thermometer reads 160°, 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat; add vanilla. Beat on high speed until stiff glossy peaks form, about 7 minutes.
    • Spread between layers and over top and sides of cake. Cover with coconut. If desired, decorate with sprinkles. Store, uncovered, in refrigerator.

    Nutrition Facts

    1 slice: 400 calories, 16g fat (11g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 341mg sodium, 62g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.