Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans or one 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, until smooth and well combined.
- Add Boiling Water: Carefully add the boiling water (or hot coffee) to the batter. Mix on low speed until the batter is well combined. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
- Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking pans.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes (for 9-inch pans) or 35-40 minutes (for a 9×13-inch pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove the cakes from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Frosting:
- Beat the Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Add Cocoa Powder: Add the cocoa powder and beat until combined.
- Add Sugar and Milk: Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, beating on low speed until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Add Vanilla: Beat in the vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake:
- Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate: Decorate the cake as desired. You can use chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for an added touch.
- Serve: Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a lump-free batter.
- Hot Liquid: Using hot water or coffee helps to intensify the chocolate flavor and keeps the cake moist.
- Cool Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe a breeze to whip up.
- Moist and Flavorful: The cake is moist with a rich chocolate flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Versatile: This cake can be dressed up for special occasions or kept simple for a quick dessert.
Enjoy your easy chocolate cake as a delightful and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress everyone!