Fudge Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee to enhance flavor)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed with a mixer for about 2 minutes until completely smooth.
4. Carefully stir in the boiling water or hot coffee by hand. The batter will be very thin and watery, but don't worry—that is the secret to a moist cake!
5. Pour the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
6. Make the frosting: Beat the softened butter for 2 minutes until creamy. Alternately add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder with the heavy cream, blending thoroughly. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat on high until light and fluffy.
7. Frost the top of the first cooled layer, stack the second layer on top, and coat the entire outside of the cake. Top with chocolate shavings if desired!