1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/4 c. red food color
2 tbsp. cocoa
2 1/2 c. + 2 tbsp. sifted cake flour
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vinegar

Cream together shortening, sugar and eggs. Make a paste of food coloring and cocoa; add to creamed mixture. Alternately add flour and buttermilk. Add salt and soda and vinegar and beat well. Bake in three 8 inch or two 9 inch layer cake pans at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

BUTTER CREAM ICING FOR CAKE:

Cream 1 cup butter. Add 4 cups confectioners sugar one cup at a time as you sift it. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla, 2 tablespoons milk or water. Sift 1/2 cup cocoa into mix while beating. Scrape bowl when necessary. Do not over beat. Makes 3 cups icing.