How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? To me, the most special gift ever is giving one another time…together.

One perfect start to the day would be making him breakfast in bed.  Or maybe going out for some waffles and steak and eggs at a down-home diner. Weather willing, how about a leisurely walk, hand-in-hand?   In the evening, turn off the TV, put on some music and just cuddle.  Or talk…and listen. Good ol’ back rubs are always nice.  Maybe bake some cookies together, or mix up a from scratch cake.

Here’s a recipe from my childhood, one of my husband’s all-time favorites.  I bake it only once or twice a year.  This Saturday – Valentine’s Day – will be one of those days.

RED WALDORF CAKE

• 1/2 cup shortening
• 2 oz. red food coloring
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1-1/2 cups sugar
• 3 tablespoons Hershey’s unsweentened cocoa
• 2-1/4 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Make a paste of cocoa and food coloring.   Cream shortening and sugar.  Add eggs one at a time, beating after each.  Add red cocoa mixture and blend.  Combine sifted measured flour with salt.  Add vanilla to buttermilk.  Combine flour alternately with buttermilk to creamed mixture.  Fold in vinegar and baking soda.  Pour batter into 3 (8-inch) layer pans that are greased and lined with waxed paper.  Bake at 350º for 25 to 30 minutes.  Let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes before removing.  Frost with Seven Minute frosting.

SEVEN MINUTE FROSTING

• 2 egg whites
• 1-1/2 cups sugar
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

In top of a double boiler, combine egg whites, sugar, water, and cream of tartar.  Beat with electric mixer at high speed for 1 minute.  Place over simmering water, cook 7 minutes beating constantly with electric mixer at high speed until soft glossy peaks form.  Remove from hot water.  Stir in vanilla.  Makes 2 cups.

Wishing you a lovely VALENTINE’S DAY!