1 pkg. chocolate fudge cake mix (your choice)
1 (3 oz.) pkg. cherry jello
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 cup water, divided
3 eggs
1/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped (reserve juice for frosting)

Blend cake mix, jello, oil and 1/2 cup water in large mixer bowl. Mix for 1 minute at low speed. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.

Add two eggs, one at a time, beating 1 minute after each addition. Add a third egg, chopped cherries and remaining 1/2 cup water. Beat at medium speed for 1 minute.

Pour into two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes. Cool.

Fill and frost with Cherry Fudge Frosting.

CHERRY FUDGE FROSTING:

2 cups sugar
1/2 cup cocoa
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup milk
reserved cherry juice
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3 tbsp. cherries, chopped and drained
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Combine first 3 ingredients in a heavy saucepan; stir in milk and juice. Add butter; bring to a boil. Cover and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, chopped cherries and nuts (if desired). Beat at medium speed of an electric mixer until spreading consistency.

Makes 1 (2 layer) cake.

Submitted by: Judy Fisher