LUSCIOUS COCONUT CAKE

Steps:

• Cake: Beat together the first seveningredients at medium speed until mixed well.
• Add the extracts and mix well.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in coconut.
• Pour batter into 4 greased and floured 9-inch round cakepans.
• Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool pans on a rack 10 minutes before removing.
• Continue to cool on the rack until room temp is reached.
• Coconut Filling: Cook together the sugar, flour, milk, and eggs in a large saucepan over medium low heat, whisking constantly, for 15 minutes.
• You want it thick and bubbly.
• Remove from heat.
• Stir in coconut and vanilla-mix well and cool completely.
• (makes 5&1/2 cups) Spread coconut filling between layers.
• Beat whipping cream on high until foamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until soft peaaks form.
• Spread on top and sides of cake.
• Garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
• OR.
• Coconut Milk Frosting: Beat together the butter, salt, vanilla and almond extract until fluffy.
• Add sugar alternately with coconut milk, beating until smooth.
• Frost cake and garnish with toasted coconut.
• (makes 9 cups).