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

Cream shortening, sugar; add eggs (beaten). Make a paste of food coloring and cocoa. You can add food coloring to liquid. Add buttermilk and salt alternating with flour. Add vanilla; dissolve soda in hot water. Mix with vinegar, holding over bowl.

Pour into 3 (9-inch) pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

FROSTING:

3 tbsp. flour
1 c. milk
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. butter

Cook flour and milk until very thick; chill. Cream sugar, vanilla, and butter until fluffy. Blend in flour mixture. Store covered and refrigerate.