Chocolate cake recipe - kathy shannon

1. Step 1: Cream shortening, add sugar and cream thoroughly until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add egg and vanilla and beat thoroughly until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Melt chocolate over hot water, next stir in egg mixture.
Step 4: Mix together sifted flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda.
Step 5: Then add to 1st mixture alternating with the boiling water, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Step 6: Turn into a square wax paper lined loaf pan and bake 35 minutes in a 350 degree oven. Check time and test for completeness using a toothpick.

2. Do not disturb oven during the baking time. Cake is very sensitive and will fall (not rise) if disturbed during the baking process.

3. Serve the cake right from the pan; warm from the oven, it's wonderful with a big glass of milk. Or, once cool, frost the cake with this simple chocolate frosting: Heat 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips with 1/2 cup half & half until the chips melt. Stir until smooth, and pour/spread over the cake.