3 sq. (oz.) unsweetened chocolate
1 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1/2 c. dairy sour cream

Melt chocolate; cool. Grease and lightly flour two 8 x 1 1/2 inch cake pans. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt. Beat shortening with electric mixer about 30 seconds. Add sugar and vanilla; beat until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well on medium speed. Stir in melted chocolate and sour cream.

Add dry ingredients and 1 cup cold water alternately to beaten mixture, beating after each addition. Turn into prepared pans. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30-35 minutes or until done. Cool 10 minutes on wire racks. Remove from pans; cool thoroughly. Frost as desired. 12 servings.