Cake:

1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 oz. red food coloring
2 tbsp. cocoa
2 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. butter flavoring
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tbsp. white vinegar

Cream shortening, sugar and eggs. Make a paste with food coloring and cocoa, and all to the mixture. Add salt and flour with the buttermilk and flavorings. Alternately, add soda and vinegar, do not beat too hard, just blend.

Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Makes two layers.

Frosting:

3 tbsp. flour
1 c. milk
1 c. butter, softened
1 tsp. vanilla

Cook flour and milk on low heat until thick. Cool. Cream sugar, butter and vanilla until fluffy. Add cooled flour and milk mixture, beat until mixture is like whipped cream. Spread on layers. Sprinkle with coconut or nuts if desired.