Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water

For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240ml) evaporated milk
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1¼ cups (125g) sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Frosting (Optional for Sides):

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat together eggs, sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Stir in hot water (the batter will be thin, but that’s normal!).
6. Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Coconut-Pecan Frosting

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together brown sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and egg yolks.
2. Cook while stirring constantly for 10-12 minutes, until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
4. Let it cool to room temperature before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Frosting (Optional)

1. Beat butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and gradually mix in heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread ⅓ of the coconut-pecan frosting on top.
2. Repeat with the second and third layers.
3. (Optional) Frost the sides with the chocolate frosting for a more polished look