Ingredients:
1/2 cup shortening 1-1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 whole eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon cocoa 1 cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 ounces red food coloring 1 teaspoon baking soda dissolved in 1 tablespoon vinegar 1/3 cup Hammons Black Walnuts, chopped

Instructions:
In a stand mixer with paddle attachment or with electric hand mixer beat together shortening, sugar and eggs. Sift together flour, salt and cocoa. Add sifted mixture and buttermilk a little at a time alternating between wet and dry ingredients. Fold in the walnuts, vanilla and soda/vinegar mixture. Fill two 8-inch round cake pans lined with parchment paper or nonstick spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes; cool. Top with either a vanilla butter cream or a cream cheese frosting. Press additional toasted black walnuts into the side or sprinkle on top.