2 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 2/3 c. sugar
2/3 c. cocoa
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1 1/4 c. water
3/4 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour baking pan 13 x 9 x 2 or two 9 inch or three 8 inch round layer pans. Measure all ingredients into large mixer bowl. Blend 1/2 minute on low speed, scraping bowl constantly. Beat 3 minutes at high speed, scraping bowl occasionally. Pour into pan(s). Bake oblong 45 minutes, layers 30 to 35 minutes.