Classic Chocolate Cake

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure all ingredients are well combined.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour in the boiling water and mix until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.

6. Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Remove: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Prepare Chocolate Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, mixing slowly at first to avoid a mess. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

9. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of chocolate frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

10. Decorate (Optional): Get creative with your cake decorations! You can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for extra flair.

11. Serve and Enjoy: Slice your classic chocolate cake and savor the rich, moist, and delicious treat with your loved ones. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.

This classic chocolate cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. Enjoy!