Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the sugar and mix until combined.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
Gradually stir in the boiling water or hot coffee (the batter will be thin, but that’s okay).
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Add the cocoa powder and beat until combined.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, alternating with the milk. Beat on low speed until combined, then on high speed for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and beat until the frosting is smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
3. Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Use a spatula to create swirls on the top for a decorative finish.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and enjoy this decadent chocolate cake with friends and family!
