Special Cocoa Cake

Directions

Mix cocoa and brown sugar in saucepan; add hot water, stirring until smooth. Bring to a boil, and cook slowly 3 minutes, or until slightly thickened, stirring constantly; cool.

Sift flour once, then measure and mix with baking powder, soda, and salt; sift twice.

Cream shortening until softened; add sugar gradually, beating thoroughly after each addition.

Beat in vanilla, then eggs, one at a time, beating until fluffy after each. Add cooled cocoa mixture; stir until blended. Add flour mixture alternately with milk, beating until smooth, after each addition.

Turn into 2 greased (9-inch) layer pans. Bake in moderate oven (350 degrees) about 25 minutes.

Frosting Suggestions: When cold, spread Cocoa Fudge Frosting between layers and on top and sides of cake. Sprinkle chopped nuts on sides, if desired.