In a mixing bowl, stir chocolate and water until blended. Cool. Add the sugar, shortening, egg and vanilla; mix well. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the chocolate mixture alternately with sour milk. Pour into a greased 8-in square baking pan. Bake at 350F for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely. For frosting, combine the first six ingredients in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Boil for 1-1/2 minutes; remove from the heat. Set pan into a larger pan of ice water. Beat for 1 minute. Add butter and vanilla. Beat 10 minutes longer or until frosting is desired spreading consistency. Frost cake.

milk to equal 1/4 cup. Recipe by: Paula Anderson (ToH Feb/Mar 97)