Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process for a richer flavor)
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water (or coffee for a deeper flavor)
For the frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk or heavy cream (add more for a smoother consistency)
- 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips (optional for a fudgy center)
Instructions :
Optional Add-ins: For extra indulgence, you can sprinkle chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top. Let the cake rest for 10 minutes to allow the frosting to set before slicing.
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating 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.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix. The batter will be thick and smooth.
Add the Boiling Water: Gradually add the boiling water (or coffee) to the batter, mixing gently. The batter will become thinner and more liquid. This helps create that moist, decadent texture we’re after.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting: For the frosting, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy. Add the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt and mix on low speed until combined. Add vanilla and milk/cream a little at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency (you may need more milk for a creamier texture).
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
