1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
5 eggs, separated
2 c. sugar
Sm. can coconut
1 stick butter
1/2 c. Crisco
2 c. flour
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 c. pecans, chopped

Combine milk and soda; let stand. Cream sugar, butter, Crisco; add egg yolk one at a time, beating after. Add buttermilk and soda mixture; add flour and vanilla. Fold in beaten egg whites and coconut and nuts. Bake 25 to 30 minutes at 325 degrees.

ICING FOR ITALIAN CREAM CAKE:

1 stick butter
8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
1 box powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Soft cream cheese and butter; add sugar when smooth. Add vanilla, sprinkle on pecans and coconut.