1 c. shortening
2 c. brown sugar
4 sq. baking chocolate, melted
1 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
4 eggs
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 c. chopped nuts, optional

Cream shortening and sugar. Add the rest of the ingredients; mix well. Grease and flour 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake 30 minutes in 350 degree oven. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top, or frost with chocolate icing.