Makes a 2 Layer Cake

Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease and flour bottoms of two round cake pans.

In a heavy skillet cook 3/4 cup sugar over low heat until medium to dark brown, stirring constantly. Add boiling water, a few drops at a time. Stir well after each addition until sugar dissolves. Set aside and cool.

Reserving 2 tablespoons sugar syrup for the frosting, pour remainder into measuring cup and add enough milk to measure 1 cup.

In a large mixing bowl sift together flour, remaining 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat in shortening and syrup-milk mixture. Add eggs and vanilla; Beat for 2 minutes. Pour into pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.

To make frosting:
In the top of a double boiler, mix together sugar, corn syrup, sugar syrup, egg whites, water, salt, and cream of tartar. Beat mixture while cooking over rapidly boiling water. Beat until mixture forms peaks; remove from heat, add vanilla, and continue Beating until spreadable.