1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 oz. red food coloring
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
2 1/4 c. flour
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda

Cream shortening, sugar, and eggs. Make a paste of cocoa and food coloring. Add to first mixture. Add vanilla, milk, salt, and sugar. Add flour, soda, and mix. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

RED VELVET ICING:

5 tsp. flour
1 c. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. sugar
2 sticks butter

Cook flour and milk until thick. Set aside to cool. Cream butter and sugar and vanilla. Mix with flour mixture. Mix a LONG time.