1 pkg. butter cake mix
1 c. buttermilk
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter
3 eggs
1 tsp. cocoa
1 bottle red food coloring
1 tbsp. vinegar
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla flavoring
1 c. chopped pecans for topping (optional)

Mix cake mix and cocoa together; add eggs, flavoring, butter and buttermilk. Mix until blended, then add food coloring, mix well. Add vinegar and baking soda together, pour into mixture and beat for 4 minutes on medium speed until smooth. Pour immediately into pans.

Bake at 375°F until done.

Icing:

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter
1 (1 lb.) box confectioners' sugar

Let cream cheese and butter get room temp. Mix cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add sugar a little at a time to get a creamy and smooth icing. Spread over cool cake. Sprinkle nuts on top, if desired.