1/2 c. vegetable shortening
2 eggs
2 1/2 c. flour
2 level tsp. of cocoa
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 oz. red food coloring
1 tsp. salt
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda in 1 tbsp. vinegar

Be sure to put B. soda in vinegar before mixing rest of ingredients. Cream shortening & sugar. Add eggs. Beat well. Sift flour, salt & cocoa together. Add alternately with buttermilk. Beat after each addition. Bake 30 min. at 350 degrees in 2 9" greased pans.

Frosting:
1 c. milk
1 1/4 c. granulated sugar
1/4 c. flour
3/4 c. shortening
1 tsp. vanilla

Combine milk & flour & cook until thick (like a white sauce) Stir constantly. Set aside to cool. Cream sugar & shortening until light and fluffy. Add vanilla & cooled cream sauce. Beat until icing becomes stiff.