The Ultimate Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:
For the Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:

In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin, but that's okay).
3. Bake the Cake:

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 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.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until well combined.
Add milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
5. Frost the Cake:

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.
Spread a layer of frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
6. Optional Decorations:

You can garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries if desired.
Enjoy your homemade chocolate cake! It’s perfect for celebrations or just a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.