Chocolate Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Grease and lightly flour 2 (9 x 1 1/2-inch) round baking pans. Stir together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt.
2. 2
   In a large mixer bowl, beat the 1/2 cup shortening on medium speed of electric mixer about 30 seconds.
3. 3
   Add the 1 cup sugar and vanilla and beat until fluffy.
4. 4
   Add egg yolks, one at a time, beating on medium speed for 1 minute after each.
5. 5
   Add dry ingredients and water alternately to beaten mixture, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined.
6. 6
   Thoroughly wash the beaters. In a small mixer bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form; gradually add the 3/4 cup sugar, beating until stiff peak forms. Fold egg whites mixture into batter; combine well.
7. 7
   Turn batter into prepared pans.
8. 8
   Spread batter evenly.
9. 9
   Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes or until cake test done.
10. 10
    Cool 10 minutes on wire racks.
11. 11
    Remove from pans.
12. 12
    Cool thoroughly on wire racks.