Thunder Cake

I think each of my children have brought this recipe home from school at some point.  They read the story at school and then come home wanting to try the recipe.  We've made it a couple of times, but it had been awhile.  Lauren just brought it home, so we made it for FHE on Monday.  Wow!  I had forgotten how deliciously moist this recipe is.  Pair it with Chad's mom's chocolate frosting and you've got one of my all time favorites.  The kids get a kick out of it because it has tomatoes in it.  Enjoy!

Cream together, one at a time:

1 c shortening
1 3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
3 eggs, separated (Blend yolks in.  Beat whites until they are stiff, then fold in.)
1 c. cold water
1/3 c pureed tomatoes

Sift together:
2 1/2 c cake flour (I just use regular)
1/2 c dry cocoa
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt

Mix dry mixture into creamy mixture.  Bake in two greased and floured 9 inch round pans at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.  Frost with chocolate butter frosting.  Top with strawberries.  (I didn't.  Never have.)

Chad's Mother's Delicious Chocolate Fudgy Frosting

1 cube butter
2/3 c cocoa powder
3 c. confectioners' sugar
1/3 c. evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Melt butter and stir in cocoa powder.  Alternately add the confectioners' sugar and milk and beat until smooth.  Stir in vanilla.  If it is too stiff, add milk by teaspoonfuls.  A little goes a long way.  Makes 2 cups.