1 c. firmly packed brown sugar
3 tbsp. cocoa
3 tbsp. shortening
1 tbsp. butter
1/4 tsp. salt
1/3 c. milk
1 1/2 c. sifted powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Combine first 6 ingredients in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until mixture comes to a boil. Boil 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; cool.

Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat on medium speed of electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute). If necessary, add a small amount of milk to obtain spreading consistency. Use immediately on cooled cake. Yield enough for one 2 layer cake.