Christmas Lane Cake

(photo by: Richard Eskite)
So my pals give this one a go if you are extremely enthusiastic. We tested this recipe and it makes for a delicious cupcake as well. Who knows it could be a family tradition.

Christmas Lane Cake
yield: Makes 10 to 12 servings
Dried cherries and apricots highlight this impressive version of a southern classic.
From Bon Appétit Dec 1999
Ingredients
Cake:

* 3 1/4 cups sifted all purpose flour
* 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
* 2 cups sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup whole milk
* 8 large egg whites


Filling:

* 3/4 cup bourbon
* 3/4 cup dried tart cherries
* 3/4 cup finely chopped dried apricots


* 8 large egg yolks
* 1 1/3 cups sugar
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
* 1 cup pecans, toasted, chopped
* 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
* 4 ounces bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semisweet chocolate, chopped


frosting

* 1 1/2 (3-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
* 3/4 cup powdered sugar
* 3 tablespoons bourbon
* 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups chilled whipping cream


* Pecan halves (optional)
* Dried apricot halves