Ultimate Chocolate Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 13x9-inch baking pan; set aside.
2. 2
   Combine 4 ounces chocolate, 1/4 cup butter, water and baking soda in 1-quart saucepan.
3. 3
   Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted.
4. 4
   (Mixture will foam slightly.)
5. 5
   Remove from heat; set aside.
6. 6
   Combine remaining 1/4 cup butter, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla in bowl.
7. 7
   Beat at medium speed until creamy.
8. 8
   Add melted chocolate mixture and oil; continue beating until well mixed.
9. 9
   Combine flour and salt in another bowl.
10. 10
    Add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk to chocolate mixture, beating at low speed until well mixed.
11. 11
    Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
12. 12
    Bake 33-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
13. 13
    (Do not under bake.)
14. 14
    Cool completely.
15. 15
    Melt 4 ounces chocolate in 1-quart saucepan over low heat; cool.
16. 16
    Combine melted chocolate, 1/2 cup butter and 2 teaspoons vanilla in bowl; beat at medium speed until creamy.
17. 17
    Add powdered sugar and enough whipping cream for desired spreading consistency, beating at low speed until well mixed.
18. 18
    Frost cooled cake.
19. 19
    *Substitute 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice and enough milk to equal 1 cup.
20. 20
    Let stand 5 minutes.