Preheat oven to 350ºF. Grease & flour two 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans. Mix all ingredients
Combine cake mix, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat at medium speed with a handheld mixer for 2 minutes.
Pour batter evenly into pans, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Cool in pans for ten minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
In a large saucepan, add evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and egg yolks. Cook and stir over medium-high heat for about 12 minutes, or until thickened. Remove from heat.
Stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Cool slightly and refrigerate until firm.
Spread frosting between cake layers and serve.
