American Chocolate Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350F.
2. 2
   In a small, heavy-bottomed pan, melt chocolate and shortening, stirring over low heat until smooth and melted.
3. 3
   Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
4. 4
   In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
5. 5
   Add chocolate mixture, milk and eggs, beating until smooth.
6. 6
   Spread mixture in two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
7. 7
   Bake for 30-to-35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean.
8. 8
   Cool in pans 5 minutes before turning out onto wire rack.