2 C. flour
2 C. sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
2 sticks butter
1/4 C. Cocoa
1 C. water
2 eggs
1/2 C. buttermilk
1 tsp. vanilla
Frosting
1 stick butter
4 Tbsp. cocoa
6 Tbsp. buttermilk
1 (16 oz.) box confectioners sugar
1 1/2 C. pecans (optional) — chopped

Measure the flour, sugar and baking soda and set aside. Bring 2 sticks butter, cocoa and water to boil. Remove from heat; stir in dry ingredients. Add the eggs, buttermilk and vanilla. Stir until blended well; pour in 9X13 inch greased and floured pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove from oven. Pour frosting over cake. While cake is baking, bring 1 stick butter, cocoa and buttermilk to boil; add 1 box confectioners sugar. Stir only until smooth. Add 1 tsp. vanilla and pecans. Spread over cake.