1 3/4 c. sugar
2/3 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. sifted cake flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. buttermilk
1/2 c. cocoa
1/2 c. boiling water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9 inch layer cake pans.

Cream the sugar and shortening together until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Add alternately with the buttermilk. Make a heavy smooth paste of the cocoa and boiling water. Cool slightly. Add and blend well. Pour into prepared pans and bake for about 35 minutes or until done. Frost with Fudge Icing below.

FUDGE ICING:

1 c. sugar
1/2 cube butter
1 tbsp. vanilla
1/4 c. milk
1 tbsp. cocoa

Cook all ingredients together for 1 minute.