1/2 c. shortening or 1 stick butter
1/3 c. baking cocoa
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8x8x2 pan.

In a medium saucepan melt shortening over low heat (or melt in microwave in 1 quart container). Remove melted shortening from heat, add cocoa, and stir until well blended. Add sugar and mix well. Add eggs one at a time and beat well. Stir in vanilla, flour and salt. DO NOT OVERBEAT. Fold in nuts.

Spread in prepared pan and bake 25-30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Frost as desired.