Chocolate cake

Ingredients for the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Ingredients for the frosting:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure they are evenly 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. Stir in the boiling water slowly. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal.
5. Pour the batter equally into the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
7. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually, alternating with the milk. Beat on medium speed until everything is well combined and the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Once the cakes have cooled completely, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
5. Decorate the cake as desired or leave it plain for a classic look.

Enjoy your soulful chocolate cake! It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging in a delicious treat.