1 c. instant oatmeal
1 1/2 c. boiling water
1 c. flour
1 1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs

Stir together oats and water. Set aside. In large bowl of mixer, stir together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa, soda and salt. Add shortening, oat mixture and vanilla. Beat at low speed just until mixed. Then mix at medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl frequently. Add eggs. Beat at medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan.

Bake in preheated oven at 350°F for 35 minutes or until pick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then turn out on rack and cool completely. Sprinkle with confectioners sugar. Cut into squares.

Makes 24 squares.