3/4 c. butter
1 3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour (if using plain flour, add 1 1/4 tsp. baking soda and 1 1/3 c. water)

Cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat 1 minute at medium. Sift the flour, cocoa and baking soda (salt, if needed). Alternate with wet mixture until all mixed.

Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.