Ingredients:

  • For the cake:

    • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
    • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)

  • For the frosting:

    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 3 cups powdered sugar
    • 1/3 cup whole milk
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • A pinch of salt

Instructions:

For the cake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. Add wet ingredients: To the dry mixture, add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.

  4. Add boiling water: Gradually mix in the boiling water (or coffee) until the batter is well combined. The batter will be thin, but that's okay.

  5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  6. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.

For the frosting:

  1. Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the milk. Beat well until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

  2. Add flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.

  3. Frost the cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting over the first cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

  4. Serve: Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate cake!

Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries if desired.

Enjoy!