Ingredients
1/2 cup shortening1/4 cup butter, softened1 cup sugar3 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract2-3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs3 teaspoons baking powder1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milkMARSHMALLOW FROSTING:4 large egg whites1 cup sugar1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract1-1/2 cups miniature semisweet chocolate chips, divided
Preparation
Line bottoms of two greased 9-in. round baking pans with parchment; lightly coat paper with cooking spray. In a large bowl, cream the shortening, butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine cracker crumbs and baking powder; add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition.
Transfer to prepared pans. Bake at 350° for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
In a large heavy saucepan, combine the egg whites, sugar and cream of tartar over low heat. With a hand mixer, beat on low speed for 1 minute. Continue beating on low over low heat until frosting reaches 160°, about 8-10 minutes. Pour into a large bowl; add vanilla. Beat on high until stiff peaks form, about 7 minutes.
Place a cake layer on a serving plate; spread with 2/3 cup frosting and sprinkle with half of chips. Top with remaining cake layer. Frost top and sides of cake; sprinkle with remaining chips.
