For the CAKE:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 2 (9 inch) cake pans. In a medium bowl or on a piece of waxed paper, sift together flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk. Beat in food coloring and vinegar, then add vanilla. Spread the batter evenly in the pans. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Turn out onto a rack to cool.

For the FROSTING:

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and butter. Beat in confectioner's sugar until fluffy. Beat in vanilla. Stir in pecans. Use frosting to fill in between layers and ice cake.