Italian Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

 * 5 large eggs, separated
 * 1/2 cup butter, softened
 * 1/2 cup shortening
 * 2 cups Sugar
 * 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
 * 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
 * 1 TSP. baking soda
 * 1 cup buttermilk
 * 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
 * 2/3 cup finely chopped pecans
 * 2 TSP. vanilla extract
 * chocolate cream Cheese Frosting, recipe follows
 * Garnish: pecan halves

Directions

 * 1) Beat egg whites at high speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form; set aside.
 * 2) Beat butter and shortening until creamy; gradually add Sugar, beating well.
 * 3) Add egg yolks, 1 at a time, beating until blended after each addition.
 * 4) Combine flour, cocoa, and baking soda; add to butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. #Beat at low speed until blended after each addition.
 * 5) Stir in coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla.
 * 6) Fold in egg whites.
 * 7) Pour batter into 3 greased and floured 8-inch round cake pans.
 * 8) Bake at 325°F., for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.
 * 9) Cool in pans 10 minutes.
 * 10) Remove cake layers to wire racks, and cool completely.

Contributed by
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