White Chocolate Coconut Cake



This eye-catching cake is my sister's creation. The white "snowball" look makes it the perfect choice for a holiday celebration


White Chocolate Coconut Cake

Makes: 12 servings

Ingredients:
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 egg whites
  • 1 package white cake mix (regular size)
  • 3-1/2 cups flaked coconut, divided
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 can (15 ounces) cream of coconut, divided
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 can (5 ounces) evaporated milk
  • 2/3 cup vanilla or white chips
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, divided
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided


Directions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, 3/4 cup cream of coconut and egg whites; beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes.
  2. Pour into three greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Bake at 350° for 22-26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
  3. For filling, in a small saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, chips, cream cheese, 3 tablespoons heavy cream and remaining cream of coconut; cook and stir over low heat until chips are melted.
  4. Remove from the heat; stir in 1-1/2 cups coconut and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Transfer to a large bowl; cover and refrigerate until mixture reaches spreading consistency, stirring occasionally.
  5. For frosting, in a large bowl, beat remaining cream until it begins to thicken. Add sugar and remaining vanilla; beat until stiff peaks form.
  6. Place bottom cake layer on a serving plate; spread with half of the filling. Repeat layers. Top with remaining cake layer. Frost top and sides of cake; sprinkle with remaining coconut. Refrigerate leftovers