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

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and lightly flour 8 or 9-inch baking pans. Cream thoroughly shortening and sugar. Add eggs and beat well. Combine water and cocoa. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. At lowest speed on mixer, add cocoa and water mixture and sifted flour alternately, beginning and ending with cocoa and water. Add vanilla. Pour into baking pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Frost with your favorite icing, if desired.

Submitted by: Barbara Dries