Recipes ala Mode

2 c. sugar

1/2 c. shortening or margarine

2 eggs

3/4 c. buttermilk**

1/2 tsp. baking soda

2 c. flour

3 tbsp. cocoa

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. cloves

1 tsp. nutmeg

1 c. boiling water

Cream sugar and shortening together.  Add the eggs and mix well.  In a separate bowl mix together the buttermilk and baking soda; add to sugar mixture.  Sift together flour, cocoa, and spices; then add to sugar mixture.  Slowly pour in the boiling water.  Bake in a 350F oven for 25-30 minutes.  Serve plain or put in a cup of milk and eat out of the cup!

**Buttermilk substitute:  1 tbsp. vinegar or lemon juice + enough milk to make 1 cup.  Let set for 1-5 minutes.