4 (1 oz.) squares unsweetened chocolate

1/4 cup milk

2 cups sugar

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 (8-oz.) cartons sour cream

Sifted powdered sugar for garnish (optional)

 

Place shortening and chocolate in a 1-quart glass bowl; microwave at MEDIUM 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute.  Stir in milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla; set aside.

 

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.  Stir half of flour mixture and 1 carton sour cream into chocolate mixture.  Repeat procedure.

 

Spoon batter into a greased and floured 10-inch round cakepan.  Bake at 350 deg. for 30 minutes; cover with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.  Bake 20 additional minutes.  Cool in pan on a wire rack 10 to 15 minutes; remove from pan, and cool completely on a wire rack.  Garnish with powdered sugar, if desired.