2 c. sugar
2 sticks butter
1 c. water
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
4 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 eggs, slightly beaten

FROSTING:

1 box powdered sugar
1 c. chopped pecans
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. vanilla
1 stick butter
6 tbsp. buttermilk

Sift together in a large bowl the sugar and flour; set aside. Mix in a saucepan the butter, cocoa and water. Bring to a rapid boil. Pour over the flour and sugar mixture and stir until well mixed. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into a greased 11 x 16 inch pan that is at least 1/2 inch deep. Bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees.

Begin frosting about 5 minutes before cake is done. Melt together and bring to a boil the butter, cocoa and buttermilk. Remove from heat and add remaining ingredients. Beat well with spoon. Spread on cake while cake is still hot.