2 cups sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 cup water
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour and baking soda; set aside.

In a saucepan, combine shortening, butter, cocoa and water. Bring to a boil. Pour over flour mixture and stir. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla; beat well.

Pour into greased cookie sheet, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.

Frosting:

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
1/3 cup milk
1 (1 lb.) box powdered sugar
1 cup chopped nuts

Combine butter, cocoa and milk and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add 1 lb. powdered sugar and nuts.

Frost brownies while still warm.