Cake Ingredients:
1 box white cake mix (or yellow cake mix)
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar)
3 eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan or two to three round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Frosting:
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well.
Add milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
Assembly:
Frost the cooled cake, spreading frosting between layers if using multiple pans.
Garnish with extra coconut or chopped nuts if desired.