HOOSIER CAKE

2 c. all-purpose flour
2 c. sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 sticks (1 cup) butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 c. water
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
--FROSTING:--
1 stick (1/2 c.) butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
6 tbsp. buttermilk
1 lb. confectioners sugar
1 tbsp. vanilla
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, soda and salt. Stir to combine. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, cocoa and water, heat, stirring until butter melts. Add to dry ingredients. Beat well to blend. Stir in buttermilk, eggs and vanilla. Beat well to combine. Divide batter between 29 inch round layer cake pans that have been greased and floured. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes or until cake tests done. Remove to rack to cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto rack to cool completely. Make frosting: In a medium saucepan combine butter, cocoa, buttermilk; bring to boiling, stirring. Remove from heat and add confectioners sugar and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Frost cake when cake is completely cold and frosting is just warm to the touch. Makes 9 inch double layer cake.