Texas Sheet Cake



Ingredients 
 
Original recipe makes 1 - 12x16 inch cake

 4 cups all-purpose flour
 4 cups white sugar
 1/2 cup butter
 1/4 cup water
 1 cup shortening
 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
 1/8 cup buttermilk
 4 eggs
 1 teaspoon baking soda
 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
 8 tablespoons milk
 3 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions

  1. Sift together and set aside in large bowl the flour and sugar.
  2. In saucepan over medium heat bring to a boil; 1/2 cup margarine or butter, 1/2 cup shortening, 1 cup water, and 4 tablespoons cocoa.
  3. Pour cocoa mixture over flour and sugar mixture. Stir in buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Mix well and pour into a greased and floured sheet pan.
  4. Bake in a preheated 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) oven for 20 minutes.
  5. To Make Frosting: Five minutes before cake is done, bring to boil in a saucepan 1/2 cup margarine or butter, 6 tablespoons milk, and 4 tablespoons cocoa. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the confectioners' sugar, nuts (if desired), and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and immediately pour frosting over cake. Cake may be served warm or at room temperature.