Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will prevent sticky situations later!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk until evenly mixed. Make sure there are no lumps; you want a smooth blend for the best cake texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, combine the canola oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly before adding to your dry ingredients.
Step 4: Whip Egg Whites
- Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy cake; it gives the cake volume.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, ensuring not to deflate the egg whites. Once mixed, fold in the egg whites with care. The batter should be light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
- For the frosting, combine egg yolks, sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Step 8: Cool the Mixture
- Once thickened, remove it from the heat. In another bowl, combine softened butter, cornstarch, and water, mixing until creamy. Gradually add the cooled egg mixture to the butter mixture until combined.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
- Once your cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting generously on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides. Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on the sides for an inviting look.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Don’t skimp on vanilla extract or butter. High-quality ingredients yield the best flavors.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature. This helps achieve a better texture.
- Whip Those Egg Whites: The fluffiness of your cake relies heavily on properly beaten egg whites. Don’t rush this step!
- Cool Completely: Make sure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting may melt!
- Experiment with Flavors: While macadamia nuts are classic, you could add coconut flakes or dark chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
