1/2 cup shortening

1 1/3 cup plain flour

1/3 cup cocoa

1/4 tsp salt

4 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla

3/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

1/2 cup coconut (optional)

Cream the sugar and shortening together. Mix the flour, cocoa and salt. Beat the eggs slightly, add in the vanilla then add to the creamed mixture. To the creamed mixture alternately add the flour mixture, then the liquid, a small amount each time, mixing well. Add the chopped nuts and coconut if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes in well-greased muffin tins.