First, make and bake this basic white cake:

1 c. Crisco shortening
2 c. sugar
4 eggs
2 c. self-rising flour
1 c. sweet milk

Cream shortening, sugar and eggs together at high speed for 10 minutes. Add 1 cup flour and beat 1 minute on medium. Add flavoring and mix. Bake in three 9 inch layer pans. (Grease and flour). Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

Make a syrup of:

1 c. sugar
2 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 c. evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix sugar and cocoa well, add milk. Cook on medium high, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil, making a thin syrup.

Take a thin slice (the browned part) of the top of all 3 layers. Divide the syrup in 3 portions. Drizzle 1/3 of the syrup over the 1st layer, and 2nd layer and add 1/3 portion to the 2nd layer and then the 3rd layer.

For the frosting, mix in a pan over medium heat:

1 1/2 c. sugar
3 tbsp. cocoa
2/3 c. evaporated milk
1/2 stick (1/4 c.) real butter

Cook until it is of spreading consistency. Frost cake. With the basic cake recipe, you can make a coconut, caramel, orange, or lemon cake.