2 squares; (1 ounce each) unsweetened cocoa
1/2 cup boiling water
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup shortening
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sour milk*
In a mixing bowl, stir chocolate and water until blended. Cool. Add the sugar, shortening, egg, and vanilla; mix well. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to chocolate mixture alternately with sour milk. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking pan. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely. Frost cake.
YIELD: 4 servings.
NOTE: To sour milk, place 1 teaspoon white vinegar in a measuring cup; add milk to equal 1/4 cup.
Frosting
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/3 cup milk
2 squares (1 ounce each) unsweetened chocolate
2 tablespoons shortening
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine the first six ingredients in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Boil for 1-1/2 minutes; remove from heat. Set pan into a larger pan of ice water. Beat for 1 minute. Add butter and vanilla. Beat 10 minutes longer or until frosting is desired spreading consistency. Frost cake.
