2 (1 oz.) bottles red food coloring
1 packet instant hot chocolate (Swiss Miss or Carnation) NOT sugar-free
1/2 c. Crisco
1 1/2 c. granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 c. buttermilk
2 1/4 c. cake flour, sifted
1 tsp. (scant) salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tbsp. vinegar

RED PASTE:

Mix 2 (1 ounce) bottles red food coloring with 1 packet instant hot chocolate. Set aside.

1/2 c. Crisco
1 1/2 c. granulated sugar

Add Red Paste. Mix. Add 1 cup buttermilk, mix again. Add 2 1/4 cups cake flour with scant teaspoon salt. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla, mix.

Beat in by hand 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 tablespoon vinegar.

Pour into 2 well greased and floured 9 inch round cake pans (or cupcake tins makes 2 dozen).

Bake 350 degrees 25 to 30 minutes.