White Chocolate Cake with Spiky Meringue Frosting

Name: White Chocolate Cake with Spiky Meringue Frosting
Yield: serves 12 to 14
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 cups cake flour; 3 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped macadamia nuts; 5 large egg whites; 1 (10-ounce) bag white chocolate chips (about 2 cups); 2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 10 large egg whites; 3 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup (about 6 ounces) white chocolate chips, melted and cooled for about 15 minutes; 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts, for sprinkling

December 14, 2011

In my family, it wouldn’t be homecoming without at least one old-fashioned layer cake, so I developed one inspired by a recipe from my Grandma Nez, the cake champion of her generation. As a child I wasn’t sure which I loved better, her cakes or her ample lap. I’d nestle into her smooshy interior and feel so comfy and protected there underneath her big bosoms. I admit this cake is a lot of work, but bring it to any event and no one will forget it. It makes a great cake for birthdays, wedding or baby showers, and anniversaries.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.