2 c. flour
2 c. sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 sticks butter
1 c. water
4 tbsp. cocoa

Sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix butter, water and cocoa and bring to a boil. Stir the above ingredients together. Add 2 eggs, 1/2 cup buttermilk and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch sheet pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

FROSTING:

1 stick butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
6 tbsp. buttermilk

Bring to a boil, remove from heat and add 1 box powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Add 1 cup chopped nuts, if desired. (I find half of the frosting is enough for a 9x13 inch cake. If only using half, the rest freezes well.) You can also use an 11x15 inch pan. Bake about 20 minutes.