Chocolate Velvet Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Melt chocolate in microwave in bowl about 1 1/2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
2. 2
   Beat butter and sugar at medium speed until well blended-about 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Add eggs 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.
4. 4
   Add melted chocolate, beating until blended.
5. 5
   Sift together flour, baking soda and salt.
6. 6
   Sift 3 times.
7. 7
   Gradually add 1 cup hot water in a slow stream.
8. 8
   Beat just until blended, stir in vanilla.
9. 9
   Spoon into 3 greased and floured 8 inch round cake pans.
10. 10
    Bake in 350 degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
11. 11
    Cool in pan for 10 minutes-remove from pans and let cool on wire rack.