Black Walnut Cake

Cream the butter and shortening.

Gradually add sugar, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer. Add egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Combine buttermilk and soda. Stir until soda dissolves. Add flour to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with flour.

Mix after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Add 1 cup walnuts and coconut, stirring well.

Beat egg whites (at room temperature) and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.

Fold into batter.

Pour batter into 3 greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.

Bake at 350° for 22 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes. Remove from pans.

Let cool completely on wire racks. Spread Cream Cheese Frosting between layers and on top and sides of cake.

Press additional walnuts onto sides of cake.