1 c. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/2 c. cocoa
3 c. sifted cake flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 c. buttermilk

Cream butter, vanilla, and sugar together. Add eggs, one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition; beat until light and fluffy. sift cocoa, flour, soda, and salt together. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, blending well. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes, then remove. Cool. Frost with Browned-Butter Frosting.

BROWNED-BUTTER FROSTING:

1/2 c. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. salt
6 c. sifted confectioners sugar
1/3 to 1/2 c. cream

Brown butter lightly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; pour into mixing bowl. Add vanilla, salt, and 1/2 of confectioners sugar; beat thoroughly. Add remaining sugar alternately with cream, beating until of spreading consistency.