Brownies:

2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 sticks of butter
1/4 c. cocoa
1 c. water
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
chopped nuts (optional)

Mix the first four ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Melt butter, cocoa and water and bring to a boil. Pour over dry ingredients and mix well. Add buttermilk, eggs, vanilla and nuts. Pour into greased jelly roll pan and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F.

Frosting:

1 stick butter
1/4 c. cocoa
1/4 c. plus 2 tbsp. buttermilk
1 lb. powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Melt first three ingredients and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add sugar and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Frost warm brownies. Enjoy!