Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
4. Carefully stir in the boiling water. This step is crucial as it helps the cocoa to bloom and enhances the cake’s moisture.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops if necessary.
6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. For the chocolate frosting, beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed.
9. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
10. For a beautiful presentation, you can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries on top of the frosted cake.