2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 stick butter
1/2 c. shortening or oil
1 c. water
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

ICING:

1 stick butter
5 tbsp. milk
1 box powdered sugar
5 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. nuts (optional)

Combine dry ingredients. In saucepan bring butter, oil and water to a boil. Pour over dry ingredients, mixing well. Add buttermilk, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Pour into greased and floured sheet pan and bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.

Starting icing 5 minutes before cake is done. Bring butter and milk to a boil. Remove from heat and add remaining ingredients. Ice cake while hot.