1 c. instant rolled oats
1 1/2 c. boiling water
1 c. flour
1 1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
Confectioners' sugar, optional

Stir together oats and water; set aside. In large bowl of mixer stir together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa, soda and salt. Add shortening, oat mixture and vanilla; beat at low speed just until mixed, then beat at medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl frequently. Add eggs, beat at medium speed, 2 minutes; scraping bowl occasionally.

Pour into greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch pan. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven or until pick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then turn out on rack and cool completely. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. Cut into squares.