2/3 c. butter
1 2/3 c. sugar
3 eggs
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 c. all-purpose flour
2/3 c. Hershey's cocoa
1 1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 1/3 c. water
1/2 c. crushed peppermint candy (opt.)

Beat first 4 ingredients at high speed with mixer for 3 minutes. Combine dry ingredients, add alternately with water to creamed mixture. Blend just until combined; add peppermint candy. Pour into 2 greased and cocoa dusted 9 inch cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes.