How To Make Chocolate Layer Cake

Ingredients

1/4 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup baking cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
FROSTING:
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1/2 cup baking cocoa
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons hot water

Directions

In a mixing bowl, beat shortening and sugar. beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk. Pour into a greased and floured 9-in. round baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

For frosting, in a small mixing bowl, cream butter. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, vanilla and enough water to achieve spreading consistency.

To assemble, cut cake in half. Place one half on a serving plate. Spread with 1/2 cup frosting. Top with remaining cake. Spread remaining frosting over top and rounded edge of cake.