2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
1/3 c. cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. butter (2 sticks)
1 c. water
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

Combine sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt in large mixing bowl. Mix well. Heat butter and water in a saucepan until boiling. Pour over dry ingredients and mix. Beat in buttermilk, eggs and vanilla. Pour in greased and floured 16 x 11 inch pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. 18 to 24 servings.

FROSTING:

1/2 c. butter (1 stick)
1/4 c. cocoa
6 tbsp. milk
1 lb. C & H powdered sugar
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Combine butter, cocoa and milk. Heat to boiling. Pour over powdered sugar and nuts, mix well. Spread on hot cake.