Step 1

Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round baking pans.

Step 2

Stir together cocoa and water in small bowl until smooth; set aside. Beat butter, sugar and vanilla in large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt; add to butter mixture alternately with chocolate mixture and buttermilk, beating just enough to blend. Pour batter into prepared pans.

Step 3

Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until top springs back when touched lightly. Cool 5 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks. Cool completely. Prepare Coconut Pecan Frosting; spread between layers and over top. * To sour milk: Use 1 tablespoon white vinegar plus milk to equal 1 cup.