1/2 c. Crisco shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
2 (1 oz.) bottles red food coloring
2 eggs
1 tbsp. cocoa
1 tbsp. vinegar

Cream shortening and sugar together. Add vanilla and coloring and mix. Add eggs and mix well. Measure flour with cocoa. Sift three times and add to above mixture. Alternating with buttermilk, fold in soda mixed with vinegar. Bake in layers at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

ICING FOR RED VELVET CAKE:

1/4 c. flour
1 stick butter
1 c. sugar
1 c. milk (sweet)
1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla