2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. butter (2 sticks) or butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 c. water
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla

Sift together sugar, flour and baking soda. Bring to a rapid bowl butter, cocoa and water. Pour over dry ingredients while mixing mixture, add buttermilk, beaten eggs and vanilla. Pour into a greased and floured 11 x 16 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes.

ICING:

1/2 c. butter (1 stick)
4 tbsp. cocoa
6 tbsp. buttermilk
1 lb. box powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chopped nuts, optional