2 1/2 c. flour
1 2/3 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
3 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla
2/3 c. shortening
3/4 c. milk
1/2 c. milk
3 eggs

Combine flour, sugar, salt and baking powder in large mixing bowl. Add shortening and 3/4 cup milk. Beat vigorously by hand or mixer at medium speed for 2 minutes. Add eggs, 1/2 cup milk and vanilla and beat 2 minutes longer. Pour into 3 greased and floured 9-inch cake pans and bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.

SMOOTH 'N CREAMY FROSTING:

1 pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix
1/4 c. 10X sugar
1 c. cold milk
1 (8 oz.) non-dairy whipped topping

Combine pudding mix, sugar and milk in small bowl. Beat slowly with rotary beater or at lowest speed of an electric mixer until well blended, about 1 minute. Let stand 5 minutes. Fold in whipped topping. Frosted cake should be refrigerated.