1/2 c. shortening (part butter)
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/4 c. red food coloring
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1 c. buttermilk
2 1/2 c. cake flour
1 tbsp. vinegar
1 tsp. baking soda

Cream shortening and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and beat. Make paste of coloring and cocoa; add to mixture. Add salt, buttermilk, flour, and vanilla alternately. Mix vinegar and soda together, then add to mixture just blending in. Bake in 2 (9 inch) pans at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Let cool. Split layers in two, using a thread in a sawing motion.

FROSTING: Cook 5 tablespoons flour and 1 cup milk together until thick. Cool. Mix 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 pound butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat together until the consistency of whipped cream. Add milk and flour mixture and spread between layers of cake and on top (not on sides). If frosting is too soft, chill.