Classic Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 and 1/2 cups (440g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:

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

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

• In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
• Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.

5. Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

6. Cool the Cakes:

• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

7. Prepare the Frosting:

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until combined.
• Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.

8. Frost the Cake:

• Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer.
• Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

9. Decorate (Optional):

• For extra decoration, you can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries on top.

Tips:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• If you want a richer chocolate flavor, you can substitute buttermilk for the whole milk and add a bit more cocoa powder.
• For a smooth frosting, beat it for a few minutes longer to incorporate more air.

Enjoy your classic, rich chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion in 2024!